Chassis selections for this weeks race: see the list of many teams [that report or post them] and what chassis were selected by the team to run in the GEICO 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway on the Talladega Race Info page - Chassis selection area.

Kroger steps up program with JTG Daugherty Racing: JTG Daugherty Racing announced that they are expanding their relationship with The Kroger Co. After six years of sponsoring the #47 Chevy in the Daytona 500, Kroger will have primary real estate for at least 24 races for multiple years. AJ Allmendinger, who has one victory, two pole awards, seven top-five finishes, 37 top-10 finishes and competed in The Chase last season, eagerly welcomes the new Kroger relationship. "I know that the folks at Kroger are so pumped up about being a part of this race team and they are just as excited as I am," Allmendinger said. "Tad and Jodi (Geschickter) and Brad (Daugherty) have a longstanding relationship with Kroger through their Daytona 500 partnership and it is cool to see it grow into something so big. To get personal text messages from their executives, I know they are overjoyed about it. It's neat to see firsthand how involved all of our sponsors want to be. Tying everything together will really help us take our race team to the next level. Kroger is really passionate about this sport and about our team. We look forward to making them a bigger part of the JTG Daugherty Racing family."
"Kroger has a fully integrated 'Race to Savings' activation plan that will be world class," JTG Daugherty Racing team owner Tad Geschickter said. "Obviously, expanding our relationship with the largest grocery retailer in America is huge for our team and our sponsors; but, is equally significant for the NASCAR industry. We are humbled that they chose us to fly their colors over the coming race seasons."(JTG Daugherty Racing), see images of the car on the #47 Team Schemes page.(4-30-2015)

Golden Corral Returns to Talladega with Tommy Baldwin Racing: Golden Corral is continuing their sponsorship with Tommy Baldwin Racing (TBR) as it was announced they will be back for 2015. The three-race deal as primary sponsor on the #7 Chevy will cover both races at Talladega Superspeedway and the July race at Daytona. Also returning will be the 'Top 10 Kids Eat Free' promotion. Each time the #7 Golden Corral team finishes in the top-10 this season, Golden Corral will offer a one day "Kids Eat Free" promotion on the Monday immediately following the top-10 race finish. "We are proud to welcome back Golden Corral for another season with TBR," said team owner Tommy Baldwin Jr. "Their top-10 kids eat free promotion always is a fan favorite"
"Talladega is always exciting and we're thrilled to be back with the #7 team. We're pulling for some top-10 finishes this season so that we can share our 'Top 10 Kids Eat Free' promotion with race fans across the country," said Shelley Wolford, Vice President of National Marketing at Golden Corral.(TBR/140Buzz), see an image of the scheme on the #7 Team Schemes page.(4-30-2015)

Erik Jones to drive the #18 JGR car starting at Kansas: Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) announced that Erik Jones will fill in for Kyle Busch in the #18 M&M'S Toyota Camry in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) starting at Kansas Speedway on May 9, 2015. This will mark the 18-year-old Byron, Michigan native's first official NASCAR Sprint Cup Series start. "I'm pretty excited and grateful for the opportunity to drive the #18 M&M'S Toyota Camry in the Sprint Cup Series and make my debut for Joe Gibbs Racing. This is a really good opportunity for me. We are going to try to manage our expectations and if we can go out and get a top-15 run and gain some experience, that would be a great day for us. I'm also excited about representing M&M'S, a great longtime partner at JGR and such a well-known brand. I am looking forward to getting behind the wheel of the M&M'S Toyota at Kansas." At Kansas, Jones will be running a special paint scheme highlighting M&M'S support of Red Nose Day on the #18 M&M's Toyota. Mars is proud to be a partner of Red Nose Day, a major charitable event that will be held on May 21, 2015. The M&M'S Brand is one of the world's most beloved chocolate candies and a leader in colorful fun, so it's a natural fit to leverage the M&M'S brand and humor to help raise money through this partnership. M&M'S is bringing Red Nose Day to NASCAR for the first time at Kansas and May 15 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Jones currently runs full-time in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) for Kyle Busch Motorsports and a partial schedule for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR XFINITY Series (NXS). Kansas will mark Jones first official Cup Series start, but earlier this season he was able to make laps in the #11 Toyota Camry at Bristol Motor Speedway after Denny Hamlin was unable to continue the race following an extended rain delay. Jones finished the race in the 26th position (which was credited to Hamlin).(JGR)(4-30-2015)

Talladega Goodyear Tire Notes:Teams in both the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Xfinity Series will run the same tire set-up at Talladega this weekend . . . this is the same combination of left- and right-side tires that Sprint Cup teams ran at this track last October . . . for Xfinity teams, they ran this left-side tire code their last race at Talladega last May, but with a different right-side code . . . compared with what Xfinity teams ran a year ago, this right-side code features a compound change for better wear . . . earlier this season, teams in both of these series ran this left-side code at Daytona in February and this right-side code at Las Vegas in March . . . as on all NASCAR ovals greater than one mile in length, teams are required to run inner liners in all four tire positions at Talladega . . . air pressure in those inner liners should be 12-25 psi greater than that of the outer tire.(Goodyear), see tire pressures, limites, sets and codes on the Talladega Race Info page - Tire Facts section.(4-30-2015)

Gibson undergoes surgery to remove kidney stone: Two weeks ago, Tony Gibson, the crew chief to Stewart-Haas Racing's Kurt Busch, thought he had successfully passed his second kidney stone in 33 days, an ailment that kept him from working the #41's pit box during the rain-delayed race at Bristol Motor Speedway. Not so fast. Upon further review, the stone hadn't been passed. Three days after he successfully directed Busch to his first win of 2015 at Richmond, Gibson tweeted Wednesday he was undergoing "little surgery" to have the stones officially removed.(NBC Sports)(4-30-2015)

Busch-Gibson Combo Morphing Into Championship Contenders: Many predicted this. Dating all the way back to his championship season of 2004, Richmond winner Kurt Busch had excelled with a crew chief who could be defined as "old school" - one who made decisions with a healthy mix of modern engineering smarts and plain old gut. Busch won his title with a professor in old school ideals - Jimmy Fennig - calling the shots. Now, 11 years later, Tony Gibson -- himself a 'racer's crew chief' - takes his perch atop Busch's pit box. And the resulting success is astounding. Since Gibson joined the #41 Stewart-Haas Racing team with three races remaining in the 2014 season, Busch has rattled off some of the best numbers in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Here are a few, and their relation to the competition (Note: Due to his suspension to open the 2015 season, Busch's stats span nine races, compared to 12 for other drivers)...
- His average finish with Gibson is 8.7, which ranks second only to Kevin Harvick's 5.2
- Busch's driver rating with Gibson is 111.8, second to Harvick's 130.6.
- His average running position is 7.0, second to Harvick's 4.5
- Despite three fewer races, he ranks fourth in fastest laps run (217) and second in laps led (536)(NASCAR)(4-30-2015)

Pedigree featured on the #18 at Talladega; start 300 for Ragan: Sunday's race at Talladega will be the first of two this season with Pedigree as primary sponsor of the #18 Toyota, the other coming in September at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. David Ragan, an avid animal lover and dog owner, would like nothing more than to bring the dogs riding along on the Pedigree Toyota back to victory lane at Talladega, a place he's quite familiar with. The Talladega race will coincide with the launch of a new tastier and meatier PEDIGREE Dry Dog Food recipe that delivers the variety that pet parents are looking for. The new recipe is loaded with whole grains and protein accented with vegetables, providing a nutritious and delicious difference that pet parents will see and their dogs will taste. On top of his solid track record and Talladega race win, Ragan will be celebrating a career milestone Sunday regardless of the outcome. He'll be making his 300th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series start and his 17th Sprint Cup start at Talladega. Ragan will be filling in for the ninth and final race in the #18 Pedigree Toyota for regular driver Kyle Busch. After Talladega, Ragan will move over to the #55 Toyota for Michael Waltrip Racing (JGR), see images of the car/scheme on the #18 Team Schemes page.(4-30-2015)

Talladega Superspeedway Notes & Facts - Thursday - history:
ˇ Construction began on what was then known as the Alabama International Motor Speedway on May 23, 1968.
ˇ The first NASCAR Sprint Cup race was held on Sept. 14, 1969 - won by Richard Brickhouse.
ˇ The name changed to Talladega Superspeedway in 1989.
ˇ Fourth repaving completed on Sept. 19, 2006.
(NASCAR)(4-30-2015

Tracks could lose more seats: Executives from Speedway Motorsports Inc., which owns eight tracks that host NASCAR Sprint Cup races, suggested Wednesday that they might reduce seating capacity at some of their facilities. SMI reduced seating capacity last year by 41,000 at Charlotte Motor Speedway and 17,000 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. When asked during a conference call with investor analysts about any further reductions, SMI hinted more could be made. "In my thoughts, we probably have two or three or maybe even four of our speedways where we have some extra seats, and we are working on some plans to adjust that excess capacity,'' said William Brooks, vice chairman and chief financial officer and treasurer for SMI.(NBC Sports)(4-30-2015)

Honorary Officials, National Anthem Performers Named for GEICO 500: Talladega Superspeedway announced the Honorary Officials for the GEICO 500 on Sunday, May 3, the 10th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race of the 2015 schedule.
Senior Airman James A. Sottile, a Biomedical Equipment Technician, from Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL, will serve as the Grand Marshal by giving the most famous command in motorsports - "Drivers, Start Your Engines."
Waving the green flag and serving as the Honorary Starter will be Technical Sergeant Jason D. Floyd, also of Maxwell Air Force Base.
The 313th United States Army Band will perform the National Anthem.
As previously announced, Ole Miss Head Football Coach Hugh Freeze will serve as the race's Honorary Pace Car Driver, and lead the field during warm-up laps prior to the start of the GEICO 500.
The invocation will be given by Allen Singley, volunteer for Alabama Raceway Ministries and Student Pastor at Grandview Baptist Church in Dothan, AL.
For ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.
All seating along the fronstretch grandstands and towers are equipped with roomy and comfortable 21- and 22-inch wide chair back seats. Large High Definition Sprint Vision video boards that were implemented in 2014 will be back - three are permanent - and placed along the frontstretch to provide views of the whole track to every seat in the house. The video boards, three of which that are now permanent, are an initiative that is planned to be implemented at all International Speedway Corporation (ISC) tracks in the coming years.(TSS)(4-30-2015)

Ford Championship Weekend Tickets on sale Friday: Since 2002, Homestead-Miami Speedway has been the place where championship dreams have been made. Once again, Homestead-Miami Speedway will be home to the championship races for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, XFINITY and Camping World Truck Series during Ford Championship Weekend, November 20-22. Tickets to Ford Championship Weekend will officially go on sale to the public on Friday, May 1. Ford Championship Weekend. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.HomesteadMiamiSpeedway.com or by calling (866) 409-RACE (7223) or locally at (305) 230-5255.(HMS)(4-30-2015)

Special scheme of Dale Jr. in All-Star race: During the Sprint All-Star race in May at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Hendrick Motorsports driver Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s #88 Chevy will carry the brand name of soda - Mountain Dew Baja Blast.(Lionel Racing), see image of the scheme on the #88 Team Schemes page.(4-29-2015)

Jeff Gordon to Drive Indianapolis 500 Pace Car: Indiana racing legend and five-time Brickyard champion #24-Jeff Gordon will drive a Corvette Z06 pace car to kick off the 99th Running of the Indianapolis 500, on May 24 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Gordon, who grew up in nearby Pittsboro, Indiana, is no stranger to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He won the first NASCAR race in the history of the famed 2.5-mile oval - the 1994 Brickyard 400 - and has won four more times, including last year. His 2014 victory made him the first five-time Brickyard champion and the only five-time winner of a major race on the IMS oval. Gordon's drive will mark the 13th time a Corvette has been the official pace car, dating to 1978, and the 26th time a Chevrolet has led the pack for "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Corvette has served as the pace car more than any other vehicle in the race's history. "It's great to have Jeff Gordon serve as this year's pace car driver," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. vice president of performance vehicles and motorsports. "He is a true champion who has earned the respect and admiration of competitors and race fans alike. It will be very special to have Jeff lead the Indy 500 field to the green flag, behind the wheel of the most powerful and capable production car ever from Chevrolet - on a day he'll also be competing in the Coca Cola 600 NASCAR race at Charlotte."(IMS)(4-29-2015)

Steve Byrnes remembered at memorial service: The late Steve Byrnes was eulogized in a memorial service Tuesday [April 28th] at Calvary Church in Charlotte, NC, where more than 500 mourners gathered to remember the longtime FOX Sports broadcaster, who passed away April 21 after a lengthy fight with cancer.(FoxSports)(4-29-2015)

GoDaddy Shifting Out Of NASCAR, Danica needs a sponsor: GoDaddy Inc., the world's largest technology provider dedicated to small businesses, is leaving NASCAR at the end of the 2015 season, as the company looks to diversify its marketing investment across more channels and regions. The move marks another milestone in GoDaddy's marketing evolution, in which the company is balancing brand awareness with a more personalized data-driven marketing approach while expanding its global footprint. While GoDaddy is not renewing its primary sponsorship of the #10 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team of Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) and driver Danica Patrick, the company is negotiating to keep Patrick as a GoDaddy spokeswoman under a personal services agreement.
"We love Danica and all she does to empower and inspire people, especially women, which is why we are working to keep her in the GoDaddy family," said GoDaddy Chief Marketing Officer Phil Bienert. "We have the utmost respect for Stewart-Haas Racing, and they've been phenomenal partners. In fact, NASCAR has been a tremendous domestic platform to help us achieve an 81 percent aided brand awareness domestically, but at this stage, we need a range of marketing assets that reach a more globally-diverse set of customers. The fact Danica is having a record-setting season makes it tough to leave this motorsports sponsorship, without a doubt."
"GoDaddy has been an incredible partner for a very long time, almost nine years, and as I've said before, our brands have really grown up together," Patrick said. "It's pretty cool, from a marketing perspective, that we helped GoDaddy build such strong brand awareness here in the U.S. I'm excited to work with GoDaddy on a personal level moving forward, but will miss having their bright green color on my racecar next year."
"Danica is a superstar. She's making history in a male-dominated sport and that takes massive commitment, tenacity and passion," said GoDaddy CEO Blake Irving. "The way Danica approaches racing is remarkably similar to how our small business customers approach their work ... they're both chasing dreams in spite of huge obstacles. She's an inspiration to go getters everywhere. She's also helped inspire women around the world to dream big and keep working to make their dreams real. I would be thrilled if Danica stayed on as GoDaddy's spokeswoman and I want to personally thank Stewart-Haas Racing and NASCAR for their help in building the GoDaddy brand domestically."
In recent years, Patrick has worked to promote GoDaddy's online services for small business owners and helped with campaigns to fight breast cancer and attract more young women to study science, technology, engineering and math, also known as "STEM." "GoDaddy has been a great partner for us and for the sport overall," said Tony Stewart, SHR co-owner and teammate to Patrick. "There's a lot of season left on the calendar and it would be great to go out with a win ... that would really put the exclamation point on what has been a hugely successful relationship."(PR Newswire)(4-29-2015)

Moffitt returns to the #34 at Kansas: NASCAR's latest round of musical chairs left Brett Moffitt without a ride after the engines shut down Sunday in Richmond. But the Grimes [Iowa] native is prepared to get back in the game next weekend when they're fired up again in Kansas. Moffitt confirmed Tuesday in a text message that he'll be behind the wheel of the Front Row Motorsports #34 Ford for the May 9 Sprint Cup race at Kansas Speedway. It'll be his second stint this season in the ride that was originally supposed to belong to David Ragan, who will take over the #55 next week after piloting the #18 Joe Gibbs Toyota for nine races in place of injured Kyle Busch. The latest flurry of changes came after Joe Gibbs Racing opted to put 18-year-old Erik Jones in the #18 for his first Cup start at Kansas. It's unclear who will drive the #34 after next weekend's race. Front Row Motorsports has not announced its driver lineup beyond this weekend's race at Talladega.(Des Moines Register)(4-29-2015)

Thirteen teams to test at Indianapolis TODAY: Thirteen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams are scheduled to participate in an open test April 29 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Slated to take part in the one-day event are #24-Jeff Gordon (Hendrick Motorsports), #4-Kevin Harvick (Stewart-Haas Racing), #15-Clint Bowyer (Michael Waltrip Racing), #19-Carl Edwards (Joe Gibbs Racing), #9-Sam Hornish Jr. (Richard Petty Motorsports), #2-Brad Keselowski (Team Penske), #42-Kyle Larson (Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates), #13-Casey Mears (Germain Racing), #27-Paul Menard (Richard Childress Racing), #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (Roush Fenway Racing), #78-Martin Truex Jr. (Furniture Row Racing), #21-Ryan Blaney (Wood Brothers Racing) and #23-J.J. Yeley (BK Racing). Gordon, Truex Jr., Hornish Jr. and Yeley are on tap to take part in a two-day Goodyear tire test at IMS Monday and Tuesday preceding the open test. According to IMS track officials, the Turn 2 viewing mounds (infield) and South Terrace grandstands will be open to fans. The Pit Stop Café next to the IMS Hall of Fame Museum will also be open during the test session.(NASCAR.com)(4-25/29-2015)

#10 Celebrating Small Businesses: In honor of Small Business Week, which kicks off on Monday, May 4, Danica Patrick's #10 GoDaddy Chevy will feature the hashtag #SmallBizForce on the hood and roof as well as the message "Happy Small Business Week," on the decklid. GoDaddy is a champion for small businesses and is using the hashtag to direct people to GoDaddy.com/Force where they can learn about sci-fi related small businesses.(SHR)(4-29-2015)

Schrader wins ARCA race at Salem: Ken Schrader held onto the lead during several late-race restarts and pulled away from the rest of the field to win Sunday's Federated Auto Parts 200 at Salem Speedway. Schrader, 59, won for the first time at Salem since 1999 (and first ARCA win since 2013 at DuQuoin, IL), picking up his 18th all-time ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards victory (in 74 races). He led the final 138 laps. "Just winning anywhere feels good," Schrader said. "It had been so long since we've been able to win here. We've had a good car here several times, but for whatever reason we didn't win it." Driving the #22 Cunningham Motorsports Ford, Kyle Weatherman charged in front of Dominic Ursetta on the final lap to finish second. Fifteen-year-old J.J. Haley was fourth in the Braun Auto Chevrolet and Austin Wayne Self finished fifth in the AM Technical Solutions Ford.(ARCA Racing)(4-29-2015)

Jimmie Johnson Foundation Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope winners announced: The Jimmie Johnson Foundation announced today the five recipients of this year's $25,000 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope grants. The Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope is a program that allows fans and consumers across the country to nominate not-for-profit (501c3) organizations that support K-12 public education for the chance to win one of five (5) available grant packages.
The 5 winners are:
9 Dots in Los Angeles
BackPack Beginnings in Greensboro, North Carolina
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland in Sioux City, Iowa
Carolina Raptor Center in Charlotte, North Carolina
The Be Kind People Project in Phoenix
In addition to a $25,000 grant, each of the five winners will receive a Blue Bunny ice cream party and special recognition on Johnson's race helmet during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on June 7, 2015 at Pocono Raceway. To date, the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program has contributed more than $685,000 to 76 different charities.(JJF)(4-29-2015)

Conquest Completion Services sponsoring Clements: Jeremy Clements Racing is teaming up with Conquest Completion Services, LLC this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. Clements will wheel the #51 Conquest Chevy Camaro SS in the Winn Dixie 300 on Saturday afternoon. Along with welcoming back sponsors BRT Extrusions, Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet and associate sponsor Robert Ianuario Attorney At Law. Conquest Completion Services based in Bossier City, LA and founded in 2014 offers oilfield and rental services. With their backgrounds in E&P, production, well servicing, directional drilling, thru tubing, and most importantly 30+ years of coil tubing the knowledge of their products and understanding of your wellbore environment make their team capable of conquering any of today's challenges.(Jeremy Clements Racing)(4-29-2015)

New team to debut at Talladega UPDATES: Deese Racing Enterprises has been issued the #35 in the Xfinity Series by NASCAR and have begun operations in Mooresville, NC. The team will debut the #35 Chevy Camaro at Talladega on May 2nd with plans to compete in the full remaining schedule. Sponsorship agreements are being finalized at this time and announcements regarding sponsors and driver lineup are coming soon.(Deese Racing Enterprises)(4-15-2015)
UPDATE: Conyers, Georgia native Chris Cockrum returns to the track with a new team for both himself and the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The 28-year-old will run the #35 Advanced Communications Group/Remembering Captain Herb Emory Chevy Camaro in Saturday's Winn Dixie 300 at Talladega Superspeedway. Cockrum and his sponsor Advanced Communications Group are partnering with Xfinity series team owner Duane Deese. Cockrum's crew chief and mentor of sorts, Jeff Spraker, has been tasked with the complete preparation and set up of this car and will oversee all track activities.(WSB Radio Race Blog), see an image of the car on the #35 team paint schemes page.(4-27-2015)
UPDATE 2: This weekend, Deese Racing Enterprises will bring some California beach to the high banks of Talladega as Southern California-based Old Guys Rule partners with the team. The lifestyle clothing and accessories company that celebrates the lifestyles and passions for Old Guys everywhere will make its first appearance in NASCAR in this weekend's Xfinity Series Winn-Dixie 300. While the roots of Old Guys Rule lies in the surfing lifestyle of Southern California, many of the designs and graphics speak directly to the racing enthusiast.
AND Deese Racing Enterprises welcomes Nature Blast as the newest addition to the teams sponsor lineup. Nature Blast has an assortment of environmentally friendly cleaning products for both the home and professional use. Nature Blast's products are made in America and have been given the ECO logo as a certified green product which focuses on safety and health issues in the home and professional fields. Nature Blast products and company are cutting edge offering low toxicity and VOC's in their bio-degradable formulas.(Deese Racing Enterprises)(4-29-2015)

Benny Gordon driving the #17 at Talladega: NASCAR XFINITY Driver, Benny Gordon has announced he will make his first start of the 2015 season this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway in the Winn-Dixie 300. Gordon will be driving the #17 VSI - Somerset Regional Water Resources (SRWR) Toyota Camry. Gordon and Larry Mostoller have teamed up in establishing Performance Energy Group, which is the team supporting Gordon's race effort this weekend. Mostoller is also the CEO of SRWR, serving as Gordon's primary marketing partner. Benny Gordon is no stranger to speedway racing, considering he has made two starts at Daytona Int'l Speedway in the ARCA Racing Series in 2011 and 2014, capturing a top-10 finish. He has also made one start at Daytona's 2.5 mile track in the NASCAR XFINITY Series during 2012, finishing 12th.(Performance Energy Group)(4-29-2015)

Sweet Home Alabama Has A Lot to Offer with Food, Destinations: Talladega Superspeedway is all about the fan experience, making sure that when families come onto the property, they get the best of everything - the greatest racing on the planet with limitless amenities to make their visit a fun and memorable one. The Alabama Tourism Department has come up with an easy way for travelers to do this and more while visiting the great state of Alabama.
When fans make their journey to the GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300 this weekend during their trip to the state of Alabama, they will find that "Sweet Home Alabama" has lots more to offer in addition to NASCAR's Most Competitive Track, one of our country's top sporting venues. From delicious food delicacies to incredible road-trip destinations, Alabama has it all. Fans are encouraged to slow down, enjoy the trip, explore the cities and towns, experience the culinary side of the state and stay a little longer or come back sooner.
Alabama is rich in tradition, especially when it comes to our barbecue, so much in fact the Alabama Tourism Department has deemed 2015 as "The Year of Alabama BBQ." The tourism campaign focuses on Alabama's barbecue heritage, award-winning restaurants and talented pit masters. Highlights of the campaign include the launching of their website alabamabbq.com, a new smart phone app that alerts users when they are getting close to one of the state's top barbecue restaurants, a photo exhibit of legendary pit masters, a new documentary film about the state's barbecue culture and the announcement of the first inductees into the Alabama Barbecue Hall of Fame.
The website www.alabamabbq.com helps travelers discover some of the state's best places for ribs, pulled pork and chicken barbecue. The site features a barbecue themed road trip and has a calendar listing of top barbecue events across the state. Links can also be found on the website to the new smart phone app "Alabama BBQ Trail" which can be downloaded for free and has information on more than 75 barbecue restaurants in 52 cities across the state. The app has background information on each of the restaurants and their best dishes. It will also allow users to set an alert so their phone will notify them when they are within 20 miles or less of one of their chosen barbecue spots.
Rest assured, however, there are other impeccable mouth-watering dishes that Alabama has to offer, and one can find those easily with the "100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die" smart phone app. Discover the food scene like a local, whether you're an Alabama native or a visitor to the Sweet Home State, plan dozen of road trips to any of Alabama's signature cities and get the authentic experience. The app allows users to browse by city, cuisine or restaurant and you can bookmark their selection of favorite dishes to track travels, as well as submit photos and reviews of the famous dishes. No matter what part of the state someone is in, there are opportunities to take in the diverse culinary adventure. Learn more by visiting: www.ilovealabamafood.com. The official "Alabama Road Trips" smart phone app is an easy, interactive guide which makes it simple to plan an unforgettable road trip with friends and family to discover Alabama's countless destinations, from the sugar-white beaches and world class golf to some of the most historic civil rights landmarks. It helps users live like a local by giving search options for road trips catered to specific interests such as dining, shopping, history, arts, outdoor activities and much more. So, the message for fans attending this weekend's exciting events at Talladega Superspeedway is simple. Enjoy the races, and take in all of what Alabama has to offer. For additional travel information, visit www.alabama.travel. For ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(4-29-2015)

2015 Dale Earnhardt Day, April 29th: Dale Earnhardt Inc. is proud to announce the 2015 Dale Earnhardt Day on Wednesday, April 29th, at the DEI Corporate Headquarters in Mooresville, NC. A celebration of the extraordinary life and legacy of Dale Earnhardt, this event is held annually on his birthday, and has become a time to reflect on the accomplishments of Dale, and share favorite memories and stories. An annual tradition of Dale Earnhardt Day, cupcakes will again be provided to in honor of "The Intimidator's " birthday. DEI will be welcoming guests from 10:00am until 5:00pm/et. Admission is free, and plenty of parking is available. Dale Earnhardt Inc. is located at 1675 Dale Earnhardt Highway #3, Mooresville, NC.(DEI)(4-28-2015)

Ty Dillon to run at Michigan with : Richard Childress Racing has partnered with Pfizer Inc., a premier innovative biopharmaceutical company, to be primary sponsor of Ty Dillon for the Quicken Loans 400 at Michigan International Speedway on Sunday, June 14, 2015. Nexium 24HR, the over-the-counter heartburn medication, will be featured on the #33 Chevrolet SS Circle Sport Racing entry. Nexium 24HR, The Purple Pill you know and trust, is available without a prescription for frequent heartburn and that is good news for race fans everywhere. By taking Nexium 24HR proactively, consumers can enjoy their racing experience with its all-day, all-night protection.
"Nexium 24HR has helped my wife Judy and me improve our heartburn routines," said Richard Childress, Chairman and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. "The NASCAR schedule requires long days at the race track and Nexium 24HR gives me complete heartburn protection all-day and all-night so I can stay focused on our race team."
"This will be a great partnership to help drive sales of Nexium 24HR to win at Walmart," said Nathan Spang, Chief Marketing Officer of Charlotte, N.C-based agency, Retail Sports Marketing. "In the case of NASCAR, events on and off the track can lead to frequent heartburn. Nexium 24HR allows fans to enjoy the foods they love while witnessing the intensity racing generates."
In conjunction with its primary sponsorship of the #33 Chevy, Nexium 24HR will feature racing-themed displays, exclusively at Walmart, with a unique opportunity for shoppers to win a chance to be an honorary crew member and to meet Richard Childress. Shoppers will also be able to get a free, one-year subscription to NASCAR Illustrated with any Nexium 24HR purchase at Walmart. Other prizes include a Victory Lane hat or a NASCAR Illustrated Collector's book. This exclusive program will kick-off June 1 and run through June 30, 2015. "NASCAR fans have an opportunity to participate in a promotion to win a VIP experience to join me at the track and meet Richard Childress," said Dillon.(RCR), see images of the car/scheme on the #33 Team Schemes page.(4-28-2015)

Fraternal Order of Eagles Joins #51 team for more two races: HScott Motorsports announced that Fraternal Order of Eagles (F.O.E.) will be the primary sponsor of the #51 Chevy driven by Justin Allgaier in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) at Kansas in May. F.O.E. will also be the primary sponsor on the #51 car at Kentucky in July and the co-primary sponsor for three other to be determined races. In addition, F.O.E. is an associate sponsor on the #51 Chevy for the full 2015 NSCS season. The Fraternal Order of Eagles, an international non-profit organization, unites fraternally in the spirit of liberty, truth, justice, and equality, to make human life more desirable by lessening its ills, and by promoting peace, prosperity, gladness and hope. Founded in 1898, the Eagles fund research in areas such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and cancer, and raise money for neglected and abused children and the aged, as well as work for social and civic change.
"Justin has been a great representative of the Eagles for years now and we're excited to see what he can do behind the wheel of the F.O.E. car in Kansas," said Fraternal Order of Eagles Grand Worthy President Bud Haigh. "The HScott Motorsports team has put together some really strong runs lately and we look forward to continuing that success on May 9."
"I am proud to have Fraternal Order of Eagles as part of our family at HScott Motorsports," said Harry Scott Jr., owner of HScott Motorsports. "Their commitment to our team shows the growth we continue to experience as a company. The Eagles focus on giving back to others in communities, and that's something we support as a team. Fraternal Order of Eagles has enjoyed their relationship with Justin, and I know they are very excited to continue their association."
"I'm glad to partner with the Fraternal Order of Eagles at HScott Motorsports," said Justin Allgaier. "I've enjoyed working with them and they've been a big supporter of racing. They're a great organization with involvement in local communities, and I'm happy to be associated with them on and off of the track."(HScott Motorsports), see images of the car/scheme on the #51 Team Schemes page.(4-28-2015)

Ragan in the #55 rest of the year, starting at Kansas: Michael Waltrip Racing announced that David Ragan will drive the #55 Aaron's Dream Machine for the remainder of the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup season, beginning May 9 at Kansas Speedway. Brian Vickers had planned to race the Toyota fulltime in 2015, but heart surgery in December forced the Thomasville, N.C., native to miss the first two races of the season. Vickers returned at Las Vegas on March 7, but was sidelined two weeks later by recurring blood clots in his lungs. No timetable has been set for his return.
"Life has thrown a lot at MWR the first part of this racing season, but our team has stood tall and worked through it," said Michael Waltrip. "Our original plans for the #55 team have been challenged since December and we felt it was important for our employees and our sponsors to solidify the remainder of the 2015 season. The opportunity to bring David Ragan into the team is incredible for a number of reasons. He will bring experience, consistency and a lot of confidence based on how he has been running with our Toyota teammates at Joe Gibbs Racing. He also puts the #55 team and Aaron's right back into the Chase for the Sprint Cup contention, which is a very positive turn of events for that team. There is absolutely no question about Brian Vickers' ability, but there remains a question of his availability. We are going to remain very close with Brian while he works on his plan to return. We have told him that MWR is here when he has a clear picture about what the future holds, but we don't need to add any timeline pressures. He is working with a lot of medical advisors and once he has established his plan, we will sit down and discuss next steps. I'm really proud of the incredible job Brett Moffitt has done for us in the 55. He has been a big part of this organization for the last couple of years and he will continue in that role. With the limited number of starts Brett has in this industry, he has proven that he has the talent to be a full-time NASCAR Sprint Cup driver and we are still committed to helping him get that opportunity."(MWR)
Front Row Statement: "We are grateful to David Ragan for his contributions to the growth of Front Row Motorsports and his commitment to our partners over the past three years. He led us on our first trip to Victory Lane, and that's a moment we'll never forget. We wish him the best with his new team. As previously announced, Chris Buescher will be the driver of the #34 at Talladega this weekend. We are working on finalizing the driver line-up for races to follow and will announce those plans soon."(Front Row Motorsports)(4-28-2015)

France say NASCAR open to shorter races: Are shorter races on the horizon for NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series? NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France was asked about NASCAR's comfort with 500-mile events and the length of time it takes to complete those races during an open question-and-answer session with the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE) last week. "I think generally speaking, we want to see shorter events... not in every circumstance," France told the group, "... It's no secret that attention spans, especially with the millennial fans, are changing, and we all know that. But what we like about it from our standpoint is it makes the actual racing event better because there's no lull in between the beginning and the end, or there's a lot smaller lull, so teams have to compete." France said a longer race doesn't necessarily allow drivers time to relax "but they're not as pressed to be up front at a certain time. "But if you shorten it, they will, and we've seen that when we do shorten it," he said. "We tend to get better (quality of races), and we measure that by lead changes and how close the winning margins (are) and a lot of different metrics that we use. So we've got a pretty good handle on that, and ... a 400-mile race will give us, most of the time, a better racing competition, and that's in addition to the time spans and attention spans of millennial fans; those two go together for us to shorten it up somehow." France didn't rule out dropping the length of a race below 400 miles, but noted that any such decisions would "also depend on if there are any format changes that we'd be willing to consider, that we look at all the time, that we historically haven't done."(NASCAR.com)(4-28-2015)

Farm Rich sponsoring Gilliland at Talladega: The green and red colors of Farm Rich will return to Talladega Superspeedway on a Front Row Motorsports car -- this time on the #38 Ford of David Gilliland. The frozen snacks and appetizers brand has been a partner with the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team for the previous two seasons, including a trip to Talladega's Victory Lane in 2013 with driver David Ragan. This week Farm Rich will support the #38 team of Gilliland, who, like his teammate, is known for his superspeedway prowess. The driver has three poles, three top-five finishes and six top-10 results at restrictor-plate tracks in his Sprint Cup career.(Front Row Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #38 team paint schemes page.(4-28-2015)

Top 10 Driver Ratings at Talladega Superspeedway:
#42-Kyle Larson 95.6
#88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. 90.7
#20-Matt Kenseth 89.9
#41-Kurt Busch 88.3
#48-Jimmie Johnson 87.5
#17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. 85.0
#55-Brian Vickers 84.0
#2-Brad Keselowski 82.9
#22-Joey Logano 82.2
#11-Denny Hamlin 82.0
Note: Driver Ratings compiled from 2005-2014 races (20 total) among active drivers at Talladega Superspeedway. Formula combining the following categories: Win, Finish, Top-15 Finish, Average Running Position while on Lead Lap, Average Speed Under Green, Fastest Lap, Led Most Laps, Lead-Lap Finish. Maximum: 150 points per race.<
See an explanation how the Driver Rating is calculated at NASCAR.com.(NASCAR)

FW1 Waterless Wash & Wax sponsoring Viva Motorsports: When the Viva Motorsports crew unloads the #55 Chevy Camaro at Talladega Superspeedway for this weekend's Winn-Dixie 300, it will feature a shiny new paint scheme. FW1 Waterless Wash & Wax will be featured on the racecar for the first time this season. Jeffrey Earnhardt will once again pilot the #55 machine. FW1 and Earnhardt have partnered in the past, with the fourth-generation driver being an athlete endorser of the FW1 products, but this event will be the first time teaming up under the Viva Motorsports banner. Viva Auto Group and Bestway Autos will continue to add support on the #55 machine. It is a fitting for the product known as "Fastwax" to make its season debut at Talladega, one of the series' fastest racetracks. The world's leading aerosol cleaning wax will keep the FW1/Viva Auto Group Camaro in pristine condition in the lead up to the race, but once the green flag drops, its up to Earnhardt to keep his ride clean.(Viva Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #55 team paint schemes page.(4-28-2015)

Said making his first start in #54: This week Boris Said makes his 2015 NASCAR XFINITY Series debut with the first of seven scheduled starts in the seat of the #54 Monster Energy Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota Camry. The 52-year old Carlsbad, California native is a longtime NASCAR racing veteran who will pilot the JGR Toyota this week at Talladega Superspeedway on May 2 and non-companion XFINITY series events at Iowa Speedway in Newton on May 17 and August 1, Chicagoland Speedway on June 20, the Mid Ohio Sportscar Course on August 15, Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin on August 29 and Kentucky Speedway in Sparta on September 26. Across 10 years of NASCAR XFINITY Series racing Said does not have a start on the 2.66-mile Alabama Superspeedway.(JGR)(4-28-2015)

LiftMaster becomes Pole Day Sponsor at Kentucky: Kentucky Speedway has partnered with LiftMaster to become the Pole Day sponsor for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR XFINITY Series Friday, July 10. Headquartered in Elmhurst, Illinois, LiftMaster is the number one brand of professionally installed residential garage door openers, as well as a major manufacturer of commercial door operators, residential and commercial gate operators, telephone entry systems and related access control products. The fifth NSCS event in the facility's history will take the green flag at 7:30pm, Saturday, July 11. The 400-mile race will provide the finale to a tripleheader NASCAR weekend that opens with the July 9 Camping World Truck Series UNOH 225 followed by a 300-mile NXS Series event July 10.(Kentucky Speedway)(4-28-2015)

New seat installation begins at Daytona: Seat installation on the east end of Daytona International Speedway began on Monday morning. Workers began installing the first of 10,000 wider, more comfortable seats that will be available for the upcoming Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola on July 3-5. Along with the 10,000 seats on the east end of the frontstretch, 40,000 new seats will be available on the west side of the stadium for the Independence Day holiday weekend. With a limited capacity of only 50,000 seats, fans will want to secure their tickets early for the 57th annual Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race scheduled on Sunday, July 5. DAYTONA Rising, the $400 million frontstretch renovation project, is targeted for completion in January 2016 in time for the 54th anniversary of the Rolex 24 At Daytona and the 58th annual DAYTONA 500.(DIS)(4-28-2015)

Richmond TV Ratings: NASCAR Sprint Cup racing from Richmond drew a 3.1 overnight rating on FOX Sunday afternoon, up a tick from last year's regularly scheduled Saturday night race (3.0) but down 9% from 2013 (3.4). Keep in mind last year's overnight was the lowest ever for NASCAR on FOX at the time, since surpassed by this year's Texas race (2.9). Though up from last year, the 3.1 is not particularly impressive. It ranks as the third-lowest Sprint Cup overnight ever on FOX and easily the lowest for a Sunday afternoon race - with the caveat that the postponement provides an asterisk. In a rarity, NASCAR finished well behind the NBA head-to-head - trailing both Cavaliers/Celtics (4.2) and Clippers/Spurs (5.0). Depending on how far the NBA falls from the overnight to the final rating, NASCAR has an outside shot of topping Cavaliers/Celtics in the final tally.(Sports Media Watch / Sports Business Daily)(4-27-2015)

Talladega qualifying likely to have 2 cars on track at same time: Qualifying will have a different look this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway, as NASCAR debuts its new format for restrictor-plate tracks. Instead of group qualifying - which has drawn some concerns since it was implemented at those tracks - NASCAR will go with a revamped version of single-car qualifying. NASCAR likely will have two cars on the track at the same time for qualifying, Steve O'Donnell, NASCAR's executive vice president and chief racing development officer, said during his weekly appearance Monday on "The Morning Drive" on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. That way, O'Donnell noted, there could be one car running on the backstretch and one on the frontstretch at the same time. By separating the cars, the trailing car will not benefit from any aerodynamic advantage. NASCAR announced the change last month after drivers complained at Daytona in February about accidents in group qualifying.(NBC Sports), for more info on qualifying, see the Qualifying News & Rules page.(4-27-2015)

NASCAR will investigate XFINITY race pit road fire: NASCAR plans to review the circumstances surrounding a pit road fire that occurred during Friday night's Xfinity Series race at Richmond International Raceway. Two Richard Childress Racing crew members and one member of driver Eric McClure's team were injured when fuel ignited at the rear of RCR driver Brendan Gaughan's car during a mid-race pit stop. A huge fireball erupted at the car, sending pit crew members scrambling. Safety workers extinguished the fire quickly. "We'll go back to Concord (N.C., the NASCAR Research and Development Center) and look at all the parts and pieces and try to recreate what happened," said NASCAR spokesman Kerry Tharp. "We're in the initial stages of looking at all that." Shane Wilson, Gaughan's crew chief, told NASCAR.com the fire started because of a malfunction in the head of a gas can, preventing the nozzle of the can from sealing against the fuel intake. "We're not sure what happened yet," Childress said. "It looks like a piece of the fuel can came off. Until we look into it and know all the facts, it's hard to say." Childress, who said he would review video of the pit stop, said he planned to meet with NASCAR officials about the incident.(USA Today)(4-27-2015)

Richmond Race and Commercial Breakdown: For those of you NASCAR fans that like stats and love to hate commercials, here is the breakdown for Sunday's race.(This race was originally scheduled to run Saturday night, but was rained out.) Began recording at the Invocation of the race at 1:01 PM, and stopped at the waving of the checkered flag at 4:24 PM (all times are EDT). Did not keep records for the pre- and post-race coverage, or rain delay coverage. Fox was the broadcast team for this event.
Total number of commercials: 109
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 57
Number of traditional commercials (not split-screen): 99
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 56
Number of 'Side-by-Side' commercials during race broadcast (split-screen): 10
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 8
Number of times Fox utilized 'Side-by-Side' commercials during this broadcast: 2
Total number of brief promos of products/services during the race broadcast (including company logos 'floating' in corners of the screen): 80
Total amount of time these brief promos take during broadcast: app. 4 min. 5 sec.
Start time to record race/commercial periods: 1:01 PM
End time to record race/commercial periods: 4:24 PM
Total minutes of complete race broadcast: 203
Minutes of race broadcast: 156
Minutes of traditional commercials (not split-screen): 47
Minutes of 'Side-by-Side' commercials (split-screen): 2
Number of missed restarts: 0
Number of 'mystery cautions' (debris not shown): 1
Total race brdcst time 156 Total comm. brdcst time 47
See full reports, sponsor links, much more details at CawsnJaws.com.(4-27-2015)

Crew members injured at Richmond UPDATES: NASCAR says three pit road crew members were taken to a hospital after a fire broke out on pit road Friday night during the Xfinity Series race at Richmond International Raceway. Two of the crew members were working in Brendan Gaughan's pit, where the fire erupted, and one was in Eric McClure's pit. There was no additional information about the extent of their injuries, or what sparked the fire. Television replays showed a huge ball of flame that appeared to engulf at least one crew member in Gaughan's pit. NASCAR identified the three injured as Gaughan's rear tire changer, Anthony O'Brien, and fueler, Josh Wittman, and Clifford Turner, a crew member from McClure's team. McClure's team said later that Turner had been treated and released. There was no word on the condition of O'Brien or Wittman.(Associated Press)(4-24-2015)
UPDATE: McClure's crew member was treated and released Friday night. As of Saturday evening, both RCR crew members remained in the hospital.(4-25-2015)
UPDATE 2: "Following last night's pit road incident at Richmond International Raceway, Richard Childress Racing pit crew member (gas man) Josh Wittman of the #62 XFINITY Series team has been released from a Richmond, VA-based hospital after overnight observation. Thanks to quick action that was taken by the Richmond International Raceway fire crew and NASCAR medical staff. Rear tire changer Anthony O'Brien remains under the care of physicians at the local hospital for further evaluation and is in good condition. The Sparco safety equipment, including the crew members' firesuits, did its job in protecting them. We thank the NASCAR community for their continued support."(Richard Childress Racing)(4-25-2015)
UPDATE 3: #62 XFINITY Series rear tire changer Anthony O'Brien has been treated and released from a Richmond, VA hospital.(RCR)(4-27-2015)

New team to debut at Talladega UPDATE: Deese Racing Enterprises has been issued the #35 in the Xfinity Series by NASCAR and have begun operations in Mooresville, NC. The team will debut the #35 Chevy Camaro at Talladega on May 2nd with plans to compete in the full remaining schedule. Sponsorship agreements are being finalized at this time and announcements regarding sponsors and driver lineup are coming soon.(Deese Racing Enterprises)(4-15-2015)
UPDATE: Conyers, Georgia native Chris Cockrum returns to the track with a new team for both himself and the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The 28-year-old will run the #35 Advanced Communications Group/Remembering Captain Herb Emory Chevy Camaro in Saturday's Winn Dixie 300 at Talladega Superspeedway. Cockrum and his sponsor Advanced Communications Group are partnering with Xfinity series team owner Duane Deese. Cockrum's crew chief and mentor of sorts, Jeff Spraker, has been tasked with the complete preparation and set up of this car and will oversee all track activities.(WSB Radio Race Blog), see an image of the car on the #35 team paint schemes page.(4-27-2015)

Sonoma Raceway introduces Real. Strong. Humboldt Redwood Deck: Sonoma Raceway will introduce a new, club level option for race fans just in time for the 2015 major-event season. The "Real. Strong. Humboldt Redwood Deck" at Turn 2 will feature a 135-foot redwood deck that extends above the existing Turn 2 Terrace seating area. This exclusive area will feature panoramic views of the raceway and Sonoma Valley, plus a redwood-arbor covered private bar with TV monitors and dedicated food service. The Real. Strong. Humboldt Redwood Deck will also feature a limited number of reserved seats perched at the edge of the deck. The Real. Strong. Humboldt Redwood Deck is the result of a sponsorship from Mendocino Forest Products, the company that is providing the Humboldt Redwood Deck and is the leader in environmentally certified redwood decking, fencing, landscaping and dimensional products throughout the U.S. Construction of The Deck is expected to begin in early May and it will be unveiled at the upcoming Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend. Located atop one of the most action-packed sections of the track, The Deck at Turn 2 puts race fans at the heart of the action, plus it's just a short walk to the main paddock, Wine Country Winner's Circle and vendor midway. The Real. Strong. Humboldt Redwood Deck will be open on race day at the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event (June 28) and the GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma Verizon IndyCar Series Finale (Aug. 30), with two ticket package options to choose from. The raceway has also worked with Mendocino Lumber to construct two new "Grille Garden" seating and shade areas where fans can relax, cool off and enjoy a bite to eat throughout the weekend. These new areas, featuring redwood arbors, will be located at Turn 2, near The Deck, and above the Turn 9 Terrace on the road course, and will be open to all fans. (Sonoma Raceway)(4-27-2015)

Entry List for the GEICO 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway is posted, 45 teams/drivers [for 43 spots] are listed, including: #21-Blaney, #32-Bobby Labonte, #33-Brian Scott, #34-Chris Buescher, #55-Waltrip, #95-McDowell.
Drivers who need to be in the top-36 in speed and have no provisional available to them (lowest in owners points): #62-Gaughan (46th in points), #21-Blaney (45th)
Drivers who would miss the race if qualifying is canceled (least race attempts): #95-McDowell (5 attempts), #21-Blaney (3).
See the full entry list on Jayski.com's Talladega Entry List

Kurt Busch wins at Richmond: #41-Kurt Busch won the rain-delayed Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway for his 1st win of the season, 2nd win at Richmond and his 26th career win. The race was originally scheduled to be run on Saturday evening, but persistent race forced the postponement until Sunday afternoon.
#4-Harvick finished second, the rest of the top 10: #48-Johnson, #1-McMurray, #22-Logano, #5-Kahne, #20-Kenseth, #24-Gordon, #15-Bowyer, and #78-Truex, Jr.
#25-Chase Elliott, making his second Sprint Cup start, finished 16th.
Harvick continues to hold the Chase points lead. He and Johnson each have 2 wins on the season but Harvick has 357 points to Johnson's 299.
There were 12 lead changes among 5 drivers. There were 8 cautions for 53 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 97.157mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
See OFFICIAL race results & points standings on the Official Race & Points Report (pdf).(4-26-2015)

Race Fast Facts - Richmond International Raceway:
Kurt Busch won the 61st Annual Toyota Owners 400, his 26th victory in 513 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races.
This is his first victory and third top-10 finish in 2015.
This is his second victory and 11th top-10 finish in 29 races at Richmond International Raceway.
Kevin Harvick (second) posted his 18th top-10 finish in 29 races at Richmond International Raceway. It is his eighth top-10 finish in 2015.
Jimmie Johnson (third) posted his 10th top-10 finish in 27 races at Richmond International Raceway.
Brett Moffitt (29th) was the highest finishing rookie.
Kevin Harvick leads the point standings by 33 points over Joey Logano.
(NASCAR Integrated Sports Marketing)(4-26-2015)

2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Chase Standings:
[after Richmond, race 9 of 36]
(by wins, then by points)
1) #4-Kevin Harvick [2 wins], 357
2) #48-Jimmie Johnson [2 wins], 299, -58
3) #22-Joey Logano [1 win], 324, -33
4) #2-Brad Keselowski [1 win], 283, -74
5) #20-Matt Kenseth [1 win], 273, -84
6) #11-Denny Hamlin [1 win], 245, -112
7) #41-Kurt Busch [1 win], 222, -135
8) #78-Martin Truex Jr., 315, -42
9) #5-Kasey Kahne, 275, -82
10) #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., 271, -86
11) #1-Jamie McMurray, 264, -93
12) #24-Jeff Gordon, 263, -94
13) #43-Aric Almirola, 250, -107
14) #27-Paul Menard, 239, -118
15) #15-Clint Bowyer, 234, -122
16) #31-Ryan Newman, 234, -123
(ties are broken by wins, 2nds, 3rds, etc)
See the Unofficial Drivers Points Standings page (pdf) and Unofficial Owners Points Standings page (pdf).(4-26-2015)

BK Racing, Tommy Baldwin Racing considering merger? Chatter in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage this weekend has a potential merger between BK Racing and Tommy Baldwin Racing being considered, CATCHFENCE.com has learned. Both teams have struggled thus far at NASCAR's top level this season, but the merger would combine resources, assets and personnel with hopes of lifting the on-track performance of their drivers. Another possible scenario is BK Racing simply acquiring Tommy Baldwin Racing, sources say. Currently, Tommy Baldwin Racing fields the #7 Chevy for Alex Bowman, while BK Racing fields three cars for rookie candidate Jeb Burton, Matt DiBenedetto and veteran JJ Yeley. Bowman drove for BK Racing in 2014, but left the team to join TBR. Sources tell CATCHFENCE.com if the merger happened, it's likely that Baldwin's team would switch to Toyota and Baldwin taking a director of competition role. A spokesperson for RAB Racing, which currently does not field a full-time team, confirmed that they were involved in an initial discussion with BK Racing, but wouldn't elaborate.(Catchfence)(4-26-2015)

Some teams get inspection penalties at Richmond: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Director Richard Buck sent a memo to teams this week about receiving warnings and penalties if they did not get through inspections in a timely fashion. Tommy Baldwin Racing's #7-team with driver Alex Bowman will be penalized 15 minutes of practice time next week at Talladega Superspeedway for failing to pass pre-qualifying inspection three times. Two Sprint Cup teams received warnings for failing to get through qualifying inspection twice. Those teams were the #98 car of Phil Parsons Racing (driver Josh Wise) and the #32 car of Go Green Racing (Joey Gase). NASCAR also stated that seven Xfinity teams will be penalized 15 minutes of practice next week at Talladega for being late to pre-qualfying inspection. Those cars are the #03 car of Mike Affarano Motorsports (Johanna Long), the #1 car of Roush Fenway Racing (Elliott Sadler), the #4 car of JD Motorsports (Ross Chastain), the #22 car of Team Penske (Joey Logano), the #54 car of Joe Gibbs Racing (Erik Jones), the #62 car of Richard Childress Racing (Brendan Gaughan) and the #97 car of Obaika Racing (Peyton Sellers).(NBC Sports)(4-26-2015)

XFINITY Entry List:There are 44 cars on the preliminary entry list for Saturday's Winn-Dixie 300 at Talladega Superspeedway. A few notes:
The #13 is TBA;
Erik Jones is in the #20 for JGR;
Kenny Wallace will drive the #26;
Chris Cockrum is entered in the #35 for Deese Racing Enterprises;
Boris Said will drive the #54 for JGR;
Jeffrey Earnhardt will drive the #55;
Chad Boat and the #84 team are entered;
Bobby Gerhart will drive his #85;
Kasey Kahne will drive the JR Motorsports #88.(4-26-2015)
See the complete list on the Talladega entry list page.

The Biggest Meatball in racing meets the Biggest Track in NASCAR: Talladega Superspeedway, known for its extraordinary one-of-a-kind racing, is now delivering a new menu item that is just as anticipated as the action on the track - "The Big One" Meatball. Fans coming to enjoy the GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300 on May 1-3, will want to sink their teeth into this "softball-sized" meatball that's being sold at concession stands in the Gadsden and O.V. Hill South Grandstands along the frontstretch. "The Big One" Meatball has a center of blended Mozzarella and Pepper Jack Cheeses mixed with smoked BBQ Pulled Pork and a little house BBQ sauce for an extra kick. It is then covered by a layer of Ground Beef, rolled in a panko bread crumb and parmesan mix before being deep fried to a golden brown. It's topped off with a dollop of BBQ sauce and a spaghetti garnish. This mammoth meatball, like Talladega Superspeedway, is the biggest of its kind and weighs in at over 1 pound.(TSS)(4-26-2015)

Race postponed to Sunday: Due to persistent rain, the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway has been postponed until 1:00pm/et Sunday.(4-25-2015)

Burton in for Yeley at Richmond? hearing that Jeb Burton, who failed to qualify for the Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond in the #26, will replace J.J. Yeley in the BK Racing #23 for the race. Burton had sponsorship from Estes Express Lines this weekend.(4-25-2015)

Rain will be an issue again this weekend: The Richmond area forecast looks rainy for Saturday afternoon and evening into Sunday. According to the National Weather Service, there is an 80% chance of rain Saturday and a 60% chance on Sunday, until around 2:00pm/et. After that, the weather clears up. According to @NASCAR_WXMAN, "Depending on how early the rain arrives Saturday afternoon and evening, NASCAR could get the race started. I am giving the odds of racing Saturday night to be around 30 percent. Even if they get the race started, rain is expected to increase through the evening and into the overnight...If anything we should be seeing steady areas of rain around 8:00pm on Saturday and continuing to around 2:00-4:00am Sunday. I will be honest, unlike last weekend where I felt pretty optimistic they could race, I just don't have the same feeling this weekend."
For more weather links, check out the Richmond Race Page - Weather Links.

Michael Waltrip in the #55 at Talladega; then Ragan UPDATES: Two-time Daytona 500 champion Michael Waltrip will drive the #55 Aaron's Dream Machine Toyota when the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Talladega Superspeedway on May 3. Waltrip, founder and co-owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, replaces 22-year-old Brett Moffitt who has driven MWR's #55 since the March 22nd race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana. "Talladega is a place where I know we will be very competitive," said Waltrip who owns four restrictor plate victories including a Talladega win in the fall of 2003. "This will be my 58th Sprint Cup start at Talladega so believe me when I tell you Talladega is some of the best racing in the world and I'm glad I'll get to be part of it again in the Aaron's Dream Machine." The May 3 and Oct. 25 Talladega races are the only remaining races Waltrip is scheduled to drive this season.(Michael Waltrip Racing)(4-23-2015)
UPDATE: The team is believed to be trying to sign David Ragan to drive the #55 beginning next month at Kansas. Ragan is currently the replacement driver for Kyle Busch at Joe Gibbs Racing, but JGR is leaning toward putting 18-year-old development driver Erik Jones in the car until Busch returns. That would free Ragan, who has subbed for Busch since the second week of the season. Waltrip wasn't prepared Thursday to discuss anything beyond next week at Talladega. "We're making plans now and we wanted a more long-term solution for the situation by this point, but we just haven't been able to put all the pieces together yet," he said. He also said it's unclear when - or if - Vickers will be back. "I can't answer that," Waltrip said of Vickers, who is in a contract year with the team. "He certainly wants to be back, but he's on thinners. Until he comes up with a long-term solution to that, that challenges us in answering if he'll be back."(Associated Press)(4-24-2015)
UPDATE 2: David Ragan, who entered the season planning to run with Front Row Motorsports, is expected to move to Michael Waltrip Racing's #55 Toyota beginning with the May 9 race at Kansas Speedway, multiple sources confirmed to the Observer on Friday. He would replace rookie Brett Moffitt in the #55, who has been filling in most of the team's races since the team's regular driver, Brian Vickers, was sidelined once again with blood clots. Ragan would remain with the team for the rest of the 2015 season, sources said. Saturday's race is expected to be the last for Moffitt with MWR in the Cup series, but the organization remains committed to obtaining sponsorship in order to run him in a third team and he remains under contract with MWR. An official announcement is expected sometime next week, sources said. Ragan's move will require another fill-in driver for JGR in the #18 as Busch is not yet set to return to competition. Sources said JGR will move Xfinity and Truck series driver Erik Jones into the #18 beginning with the Kansas race. An official with Joe Gibbs Racing said "nothing has been confirmed" thus far about any changes to their driver lineup. With Ragan moving to the #55 for the remainder of the season, Front Row Motorsports will need to find a more permanent replacement for Ragan in its #34 Ford. Roush Fenway Racing has been loaning Xfinity driver Chris Buescher to the team when the schedule doesn't disrupt his run for Xfinity Series championship. That arrangement could well continue, with other drivers used when Buscher's schedule doesn't allow double-duty, sources said. A FRM spokesman said at this time, the organization was still expecting Ragan to return to the team whenever his tenure at JGR is completed.(Charlotte Observer)(4-24-2015)
UPDATE 3: If the deal is finalized, Vickers, who announced in March that he would have to miss at least three months while he takes blood thinners to treat blood clots that had developed in his lungs, would be left to find another ride if he is able to return this season, [a] source said. That could include the possibility of MWR fielding a third car, pending sponsorship, after Vickers is ready to return.(ESPN.com)
AND Asked about reports that he would be moving to MWR: "I know I'm going to be in the 18 car for a little while," Ragan said. "This week and Talladega are obviously two very important weeks we're looking forward to. I'm focused on that and I just don't really have any comment.")USA Today)(4-25-2015)

Thirteen teams to test at Indianapolis: Thirteen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams are scheduled to participate in an open test April 29 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Slated to take part in the one-day event are #24-Jeff Gordon (Hendrick Motorsports), #4-Kevin Harvick (Stewart-Haas Racing), #15-Clint Bowyer (Michael Waltrip Racing), #19-Carl Edwards (Joe Gibbs Racing), #9-Sam Hornish Jr. (Richard Petty Motorsports), #2-Brad Keselowski (Team Penske), #42-Kyle Larson (Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates), #13-Casey Mears (Germain Racing), #27-Paul Menard (Richard Childress Racing), #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (Roush Fenway Racing), #78-Martin Truex Jr. (Furniture Row Racing), #21-Ryan Blaney (Wood Brothers Racing) and #23-J.J. Yeley (BK Racing). Gordon, Truex Jr., Hornish Jr. and Yeley are on tap to take part in a two-day Goodyear tire test at IMS Monday and Tuesday preceding the open test. According to IMS track officials, the Turn 2 viewing mounds (infield) and South Terrace grandstands will be open to fans. The Pit Stop Café next to the IMS Hall of Fame Museum will also be open during the test session.(NASCAR.com)(4-25-2015)

NASCAR was willing to approve Jones at Bristol based on experience: Erik Jones had never turned a lap in the Sprint Cup Series when he became a last-minute replacement driver for Denny Hamlin at Bristol last weekend. Jones was flown in from North Carolina during a lengthy rain delay in Sunday's race when because Hamlin had neck spasms. The 18-year-old arrived 5 minutes before the race resumed, and jumped into Hamlin's car for the remainder of the event. NASCAR had to approve Jones as the replacement driver, something that isn't done until the competitor has at least turned some laps. But in the case of Jones, NASCAR was satisfied he was capable of driving. Sprint Cup Series director Richard Buck said Friday that Jones was approved "based upon his recent experience at the track, and we had just gotten a fresh look at him the day before at Bristol."(Associated Press)(4-25-2015)

Richmond International Raceway Notes & Facts - Saturday - race:
ˇ There have been 117 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Richmond International Raceway, one NSCS event from 1953 - 1958 and two races per year since 1959.
ˇ Petty Enterprises has the most wins at Richmond in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with 15; followed by Hendrick Motorsports with 10, Joe Gibbs Racing and Richard Childress Racing each have nine.
ˇ Nine different manufacturers have won at Richmond. Chevrolet leads the series in wins at Richmond with 36 victories; followed by Ford with 31 and Toyota with seven.
ˇ The deepest in the field that a race winner has started at Richmond International Raceway was 31st, by Clint Bowyer in the spring of 2008.
ˇ There have been two NSCS races resulting with a green-white-checkered finish at Richmond International Raceway: spring of 2008 (400/410) and spring of 2013 (400/406).
ˇ Only four of the 115 races at Richmond International Raceway have been shortened due to weather conditions: spring of 1962, spring of 1977, spring of 1982 and spring of 2003.
ˇ Since the advent of electronic scoring the closest margin of victory in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Richmond International Raceway was the (09/12/1998) race won by Jeff Burton with a MOV of 0.051 second.
(NASCAR)(4-25-2015)

Crew members injured at Richmond UPDATES: NASCAR says three pit road crew members were taken to a hospital after a fire broke out on pit road Friday night during the Xfinity Series race at Richmond International Raceway. Two of the crew members were working in Brendan Gaughan's pit, where the fire erupted, and one was in Eric McClure's pit. There was no additional information about the extent of their injuries, or what sparked the fire. Television replays showed a huge ball of flame that appeared to engulf at least one crew member in Gaughan's pit. NASCAR identified the three injured as Gaughan's rear tire changer, Anthony O'Brien, and fueler, Josh Wittman, and Clifford Turner, a crew member from McClure's team. McClure's team said later that Turner had been treated and released. There was no word on the condition of O'Brien or Wittman.(Associated Press)(4-24-2015)
UPDATE: McClure's crew member was treated and released Friday night. As of Saturday evening, both RCR crew members remained in the hospital.(4-25-2015)
UPDATE 2: "Following last night's pit road incident at Richmond International Raceway, Richard Childress Racing pit crew member (gas man) Josh Wittman of the #62 XFINITY Series team has been released from a Richmond, VA-based hospital after overnight observation. Thanks to quick action that was taken by the Richmond International Raceway fire crew and NASCAR medical staff. Rear tire changer Anthony O'Brien remains under the care of physicians at the local hospital for further evaluation and is in good condition. The Sparco safety equipment, including the crew members' firesuits, did its job in protecting them. We thank the NASCAR community for their continued support."(Richard Childress Racing)(4-25-2015)

Hamlin gets Toyota's 100th XFINITY win: Camry driver Denny Hamlin visited victory lane in the Toyota Care 250 at Richmond International Raceway on Friday night to give Toyota its 100th victory in the NASCAR XFINITY Series. The Richmond race is the 281st event since Toyota entered NXS competition in 2007 and this year marks the manufacturer's ninth season in the series. The victory also marks the seventh win for the Camry in NXS competition at Richmond. The first Toyota NXS victory came with Jason Leffler behind the wheel of a Camry at Indiana's Lucas Oil Raceway in July 2007 in the manufacturer's inaugural year in the series. In nine seasons, 12 Camry drivers have contributed to the 100 wins with Kyle Busch visiting victory lane the most after collecting 59 first-place trophies. Other drivers to register NXS wins in a Camry include Joey Logano (18), Denny Hamlin (7), Tony Stewart (5), Matt Kenseth (3), Marcos Ambrose (2), Kurt Busch (1), Sam Hornish Jr. (1), Erik Jones (1), Leffler (1), David Reutimann (1) and Elliott Sadler (1). The most successful season by Camry drivers occurred in 2008 with 20 wins, contributing to the first of three NXS manufacturer's titles by Toyota (also earned in 2009 and 2010). Camry drivers have earned at least 10 wins each year since 2008 after winning two races during the inaugural 2007 season. So far in 2015, Toyota drivers have two wins with Hamlin's Richmond triumph and Jones earned his first-career NXS victory in Texas (April 10).(Toyota Racing)(4-25-2015)

Bristol TV Ratings: NASCAR Xfinity Series racing from Bristol drew a 0.8 final rating and 1.1 million viewers on Fox Sports 1 last Saturday, down 27% in ratings and 30% in viewership from last year (1.1, 1.7M) and down 27% and 33%, respectively, from 2013 (1.1, 1.7M). The race aired on ESPN2 the past two years. Viewership was the lowest of the season for the Xfinity Series, falling below the previous mark set at Texas a week earlier (1.2M).(Sports Media Watch via Awful Announcing)(4-25-2015)

Richmond adds more security near catchfence: Richmond International Raceway officials have added metal barriers and more security personnel in an attempt to avoid a repeat of last fall's fence climber. A spectator disrupted last September's Sprint Cup race at the 0.75-mile track by climbing atop the catchfence separating the main grandstand from the track. Track president Dennis Bickmeier told USA TODAY Sports that "bike racks," movable metal barriers, have been placed along the track concourse in front of the fence from end to end to keep fans away from the area. Additionally, Bickmeier said more security officers - he didn't provide a number - will work the fence area during on-track activity to guard against fans approaching the fence. Bickmeier also said new "No Trespassing" signs have been posted in the area.(USA Today)(4-25-2015)

Salute to the Troops Coca-Cola 600 Pre-Race Show returns to Charlotte: For decades, Charlotte Motor Speedway has paid tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces each Memorial Day Weekend with a captivating pre-race show before the drop of the green flag for the Coca-Cola 600. On May 24, the 56th running of the ultimate test of man and machine will host one of the biggest military appreciation pre-race spectaculars in the track's history. The action-packed show will include ground exercises with troops from Fort Bragg featuring Humvees, Howitzers, a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and more. Rope teams from Fort Campbell will descend from Black Hawk helicopters. Other elements include a 21-gun salute from the Fort Bragg Firing Squad, a vintage war bird air parade and sky-diving members of Team Fastrax descending to the infield with Old Glory flying behind. Fans will be able to salute the troops when 600 soldiers from Fort Bragg walk through the grandstands to the infield and during a pace lap with buses carrying hundreds of troops from the Charlotte Motor Speedway Patriot Partners program. Medal of Honor recipients Bob Patterson (Vietnam), James Taylor (Vietnam) and Walter Joseph Marm (Vietnam) will also be recognized on the pre-race stage. Several musical performances will highlight the Coca-Cola 600 pre-race show including a 45-minute concert with Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famers ZZ Top, "God Bless the USA" performed by Lee Greenwood, a rendition of "Amazing Grace" by the Charlotte Fire Department Pipe Band and "Taps" played by a Fort Bragg bugler. There will also be an Armed Forces Medley featuring the 100-member Central Church of God Chorus Group. Closing out the pre-race festivities is the 82nd Airborne Chorus singing the "The Star Spangled Banner." During that time, soldiers from Fort Bragg will hold a football field-sized American Flag and four F-18s will fly over the legendary 1.5-mile superspeedway.(CMS)(4-25-2015)

Kentucky Speedway announces Ford F-150 as official pace vehicle: Kentucky Speedway announces the 2015 Ford F-150 truck will lead the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series field to green Saturday, July 11 at 7:30pm, for the fifth running of the Quaker State 400 presented by Advance Auto Parts. The truck will also pace the July 10 NASCAR XFINITY Series and July 9 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series fields becoming the "Official Pace Vehicle of Kentucky Speedway" of the 2015 season. Ford has been providing cars and trucks to the Speedway since 1998. During speedway events, Super Duty trucks tow free fan trams and are utilized by the speedway's operations department as well as the Fire and Safety team.(Kentucky Speedway)(4-25-2015)

Pit Stall Selections: The selections of pit stalls for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway have been made.
Pole sitter #22-Logano chose pit stall 1 [as do most pole sitters].
Outside pole sitter #11-Hamlin took pit stall 17, the first pit stall with an opening in front of it.
#41-Busch, who starts 3rd took the 30th pit stall, also with an opening in front of it.
The 43rd and final pit stall was taken by #48-Johnson, who starts 36th.
To see where the drivers/teams pit stall is, see the pit selection chart on Jayski.com's Pit Stall Selection chart.(4-24-2015)

Logano wins Richmond pole: #22-Joey Logano won the Coors Light pole for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway with speed of 127.071mph for his 3rd pole of 2015, 1st at Richmond and 11th of his career.
#11-Hamlin is on the outside pole followed by #41-Busch, #47-Allmendinger, #4-Harvick, #78-Truex, Jr., #2-Keselowski, #20-Kenseth, #1-McMurray, and #18-Ragan.
Missing the race were: #26-Burton, #62-Gaughan.
See the starting lineup, round-by-round qualifying results and more on Jayski.com's Richmond Qualifying Page.(4-24-2015)

Qualifying Fast Facts - Richmond:
Joey Logano won the Coors Light Pole Award for the 61st Annual Toyota Owners 400 with a lap of 21.248 seconds, 127.071 mph.
This is his 11th pole in 228 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races.
This is his series-high third pole and eighth top-10 start in 2015.
This is his first pole in 13 races at Richmond International Raceway.
Denny Hamlin (second) posted his fourth top-10 start of 2015 and his 11th in 18 races at Richmond International Raceway.
Kurt Busch (third) posted his sixth top-10 start at Richmond International Raceway. It is his fifth in six races this season.
Brett Moffitt (14th) was the fastest qualifying rookie.
(NASCAR Statistics)(4-24-2015)

Second Round of Qualifying for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway is over after 10 scheduled minutes.
#11-Hamlin 128.083
#4-Harvick 127.648
#20-Kenseth 127.292
#2-Keselowski 127.238
#78-Truex, Jr. 127.143
the rest of the top 12: 1 24 47 41 22 18 42;
out of the top 12 and not advancing to round 3: 14 55 27 25 15 19 40 3 10 51 31 17
(4-24-2015)

First Round of Qualifying for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway is over, after 20 scheduled minutes.
#4-Harvick 129.559
#2-Keselowski 129.224
#41-Busch 128.651
#18-Ragan 128.498
#78-Truex, Jr. 128.309
the rest of the top 24: 24 42 55 19 22 27 31 20 40 25 11 47 51 3 1 17 10 14 15;
out of the top 24 and not advancing to round 2: 13 88 43 98 9 38 35 16 30 6 32 48 83 46 23 5 26 7 62 34
Drivers who will miss the race: #26-Burton, #62-Gaughan.
(4-24-2015)

Final practice for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway is over after 85 scheduled minutes, the top five, slowest two and some notes:
#5-Kahne 126.357
#16-Biffle 126.162
#19-Edwards 126.027
#1-McMurray 125.851
#11-Hamlin 125.839
Most laps run: #88-Earnhardt, Jr 95, #31-Newman 68
slowest: #23-Yeley 121.578 & #30-Green 120.005.
notes: Qualifying is scheduled for 5:45pm/et this afternoon on FoxSports 1 and PRN.
See fastest speeds, laps run, best 10 Consecutive Lap Average on the Richmond practice 2 speeds page (pdf).(4-24-2015)

Michael Waltrip in the #55 at Talladega UPDATES: Two-time Daytona 500 champion Michael Waltrip will drive the #55 Aaron's Dream Machine Toyota when the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Talladega Superspeedway on May 3. Waltrip, founder and co-owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, replaces 22-year-old Brett Moffitt who has driven MWR's #55 since the March 22nd race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana. "Talladega is a place where I know we will be very competitive," said Waltrip who owns four restrictor plate victories including a Talladega win in the fall of 2003. "This will be my 58th Sprint Cup start at Talladega so believe me when I tell you Talladega is some of the best racing in the world and I'm glad I'll get to be part of it again in the Aaron's Dream Machine." The May 3 and Oct. 25 Talladega races are the only remaining races Waltrip is scheduled to drive this season.(Michael Waltrip Racing)(4-23-2015)
UPDATE: The team is believed to be trying to sign David Ragan to drive the #55 beginning next month at Kansas. Ragan is currently the replacement driver for Kyle Busch at Joe Gibbs Racing, but JGR is leaning toward putting 18-year-old development driver Erik Jones in the car until Busch returns. That would free Ragan, who has subbed for Busch since the second week of the season. Waltrip wasn't prepared Thursday to discuss anything beyond next week at Talladega. "We're making plans now and we wanted a more long-term solution for the situation by this point, but we just haven't been able to put all the pieces together yet," he said. He also said it's unclear when - or if - Vickers will be back. "I can't answer that," Waltrip said of Vickers, who is in a contract year with the team. "He certainly wants to be back, but he's on thinners. Until he comes up with a long-term solution to that, that challenges us in answering if he'll be back."(Associated Press)(4-24-2015)
UPDATE 2: David Ragan, who entered the season planning to run with Front Row Motorsports, is expected to move to Michael Waltrip Racing's #55 Toyota beginning with the May 9 race at Kansas Speedway, multiple sources confirmed to the Observer on Friday. He would replace rookie Brett Moffitt in the #55, who has been filling in most of the team's races since the team's regular driver, Brian Vickers, was sidelined once again with blood clots. Ragan would remain with the team for the rest of the 2015 season, sources said. Saturday's race is expected to be the last for Moffitt with MWR in the Cup series, but the organization remains committed to obtaining sponsorship in order to run him in a third team and he remains under contract with MWR. An official announcement is expected sometime next week, sources said. Ragan's move will require another fill-in driver for JGR in the #18 as Busch is not yet set to return to competition. Sources said JGR will move Xfinity and Truck series driver Erik Jones into the #18 beginning with the Kansas race. An official with Joe Gibbs Racing said "nothing has been confirmed" thus far about any changes to their driver lineup. With Ragan moving to the #55 for the remainder of the season, Front Row Motorsports will need to find a more permanent replacement for Ragan in its #34 Ford. Roush Fenway Racing has been loaning Xfinity driver Chris Buescher to the team when the schedule doesn't disrupt his run for Xfinity Series championship. That arrangement could well continue, with other drivers used when Buscher's schedule doesn't allow double-duty, sources said. A FRM spokesman said at this time, the organization was still expecting Ragan to return to the team whenever his tenure at JGR is completed.(Charlotte Observer)(4-24-2015)

First Friday practice for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway is over after 85 scheduled minutes, the top five, slowest two and some notes:
#2-Keselowski 126.086
#88-Earnhardt, Jr. 125.593
#4-Harvick 125.517
#48-Johnson 125.203
#15-Bowyer 125.174
Most laps run: #48-Johnson 94, #22-Logano 75
slowest: #33-Kennedy 120.968 & #23-Yeley 120.643.
notes: Qualifying is scheduled for 5:45pm/et this afternoon on FoxSports 1 and PRN.
#46-Annett spun early in turn 4 but didn't hit anything. #15-Bowyer slip up into the outside wall during the session but didn't hurt the car.
See fastest speeds, laps run, best 10 Consecutive Lap Average on the Richmond practice 1 speeds page (pdf).(4-24-2015)

Qualifying Order for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway is posted. 45 cars/drivers are listed.
The first of the drivers scheduled to go out is #11-Hamlin.
The final driver scheduled to go out is #24-Gordon.
Qualifying order is set by a random draw, held about an hour before the first practice.
See the full qualifying order on Jayski.com's Richmond Qualifying Page.(4-24-2015)

Still no date set for RCR appeal UPDATE: No date has been set for Richard Childress Racing's final appeal of penalties levied against the #31 team of Ryan Newman, NASCAR spokesman Kurt Culbert told USA TODAY Sports. RCR succeeded in convincing a three-person appeals board to reduce some penalties stemming from a tire-manipulation allegation at Fontana, Calif., but a six-week suspension for crew chief Luke Lambert, engineer Philip Surgen and tire specialist James Bender was upheld. Lambert returned to the pit box at Bristol Motor Speedway this past weekend as allowed by terms of the appeals process. Final Appeals Officer Bryan Moss will hear the case.(USA Today)(4-23-2015)
UPDATE: NASCAR announced Friday morning that the final appeal will be heard Wednesday, May 6 at the NASCAR R&D Center.(4-24-2015)

Timothy Peters wins Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown: Josh Berry ran into leader Lee Pulliam on the last corner of the last lap, allowing Timothy Peters to win the 8th annual Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown on Thursday night at South Boston Speedway. The race will air on NBCSN in May. A date is to be announced. NASCAR penalized Berry for aggressive driving and dropped the JR Motorsports driver to 17th, the tail end of the cars running at the end. Pulliam, who hit Barry's car in Turn 2 after the checkered flag, declined to talk to the media but tweeted his displeasure calling Berry the "Biggest joke in racing." Pulliam finished 10th. Peters, meanwhile, celebrated his first victory in the charity Late Model event. Peters started from the pole and led the first 109 laps. He never dropped out of the top five in the 210-lap race, which ended on the second attempt at a green-white-checkered. Denny Hamlin had engine issues and finished 31st in the 36-car field, completing 69 laps. Chase Elliott placed 22nd after engine issues. David Ragan was collected in a late crash and placed 16th. Jeb Burton had engine issues and finished 28th. Proceeds from the event benefit The Denny Hamlin Foundation, which is committed to raising awareness and funds for the needs of children with cystic fibrosis.(NBC Sports)(4-24-2015)

Richmond International Raceway Notes & Facts - Friday - drivers:
ˇ 477 drivers have competed in at least one NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond; 313 in more than one.
ˇ NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty leads the series in starts at Richmond with 63. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with 44 starts.
ˇ 50 different drivers have won at Richmond International Raceway, led by Richard Petty with 13. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Kevin Harvick, Jimmie Johnson and Tony Stewart lead all active drivers in wins at RIR with three each (*Kyle Busch who is inactive has four).
ˇ Bobby Allison and Richard Petty are tied for the lead in runner-up finishes at Richmond with nine each. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with eight.
ˇ Richard Petty leads the series in top-five finishes at Richmond with 34; Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with 18.
ˇ Richard Petty leads the series in top-10 finishes at Richmond with 41. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with 28.
ˇ Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in average starting position at Richmond International Raceway with a 7.909.
ˇ Denny Hamlin leads all active drivers in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in average finishing position at Richmond International Raceway with a 10.412.
ˇ Tony Stewart (09/11/1999) and Kasey Kahne (05/14/2005) posted their first career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series win at Richmond.
ˇ Eight drivers in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series have posted consecutive wins at Richmond International Raceway. Richard Petty leads the series in consecutive wins at Richmond after posting seven consecutive wins from the fall of 1970 - 1973. Jimmie Johnson (2007 sweep) is the only active driver with consecutive wins at Richmond.
ˇ All of the 15 active NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winners at Richmond International Raceway participated in at least one or more races before visiting Victory Lane. Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Tony Stewart won at Richmond in their second appearance.
ˇ Joe Nemechek competed at Richmond International Raceway 18 times before winning in 1994; the longest span of any the 15 active NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winners.
ˇ Greg Biffle leads the series among active drivers with the most NASCAR Sprint Cup Series starts at Richmond without visiting Victory Lane at 25.
ˇ Two female drivers have competed at Richmond in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series: Danica Patrick and Janet Guthrie.
(NASCAR)(4-24-2015)

Denny Hamlin wins XFINITY race at Richmond: #20-Denny Hamlin won the ToyotaCare 250 at Richmond International Raceway. He led 248 of the 250 laps, giving up the lead just twice and only for a single lap at a time. #22-Joey Logano finished second, followed by #7-Regan Smith, #54-Erik Jones, #9-Chase Elliott, #18-Daniel Suarez, #2-Brian Scott, #33-Austin Dillon, #3-Ty Dillon, and #01-Landon Cassill.
There were 3 cautions for 24 laps and 4 lead changes among 3 leaders. Complete results are on the Richmond race results page (pdf).
(4-24-2015)

Richmond XFINITY Race Fast Facts:
Denny Hamlin(i) won the 28th Annual ToyotaCare 250, his 12th victory in 147 NASCAR XFINITY Series races.
This is his first victory and third top-10 finish in 2015.
This is his third victory and 10th top-10 finish in 14 races at Richmond International Raceway.
Hamlin's victory was the 100th win for Toyota in the NASCAR XFINITY Series.
Joey Logano(i) (second) posted his fourth top-10 finish in five races at Richmond International Raceway. It is his fourth top-10 finish in 2015.
Regan Smith (third) posted his fifth top-10 finish in 11 races at Richmond International Raceway.
Daniel Suarez (sixth) was the highest finishing rookie.
Ty Dillon leads the point standings by 8 points over Chase Elliott.
(NASCAR Integrated Marketing)(4-24-2015)

XFINITY Driver standings following Richmond:
1) #3-Ty Dillon, 293
2) #9-Chase Elliott, 285, -8
3) #60-Chris Buescher, 282, -11
4) #6-Darrell Wallace Jr., 268, -25
5) #7-Regan Smith, 252, -41
6) #62-Brendan Gaughan, 244, -49
7) #1-Elliott Sadler, 244, -49
8) #2-Brian Scott, 243, -50
9) #16-Ryan Reed, 243, -50
10) #18-Daniel Suarez, 240, -53
See complete owner and driver standings on the driver standings(pdf) and owner standings page (pdf).(4-24-2015)

Crew members injured at Richmond: NASCAR says three pit road crew members were taken to a hospital after a fire broke out on pit road Friday night during the Xfinity Series race at Richmond International Raceway. Two of the crew members were working in Brendan Gaughan's pit, where the fire erupted, and one was in Eric McClure's pit. There was no additional information about the extent of their injuries, or what sparked the fire. Television replays showed a huge ball of flame that appeared to engulf at least one crew member in Gaughan's pit. NASCAR identified the three injured as Gaughan's rear tire changer, Anthony O'Brien, and fueler, Josh Wittman, and Clifford Turner, a crew member from McClure's team. McClure's team said later that Turner had been treated and released. There was no word on the condition of O'Brien or Wittman.(Associated Press)(4-24-2015)

Denny Hamlin on XFINITY pole at Richmond: #20-Denny Hamlin won the Coors Light pole for the ToyotaCare 250 at Richmond International Raceway with a speed of 124.069mph.#20-Joey Logano will start second. The rest of the top 10: #54-Erik Jones, #98-Aric Almirola, #2-Brian Scott, #88-Kevin Harvick, #9-Chase Elliott, #7-Regan Smith, #18-Daniel Suarez, and #42-Brennan Poole. Did Not Qualify: #89-Morgan Shepherd and #03-Johanna Long. The starting lineup is posted on the Richmond starting lineup page (pdf).(4-24-2015)

Richmond XFINITY Qualifying Notes:
Denny Hamlin(i) won the Coors Light Pole Award for the 28th Annual ToyotaCare 250 with a lap of 21.762 seconds, 124.069 mph.
This is his 17th pole in 147 NASCAR XFINITY Series races.
This is his first pole and third top-10 start in 2015.
This is his third pole in 14 races at Richmond International Raceway.
Joey Logano(i) (second) posted his fourth top-10 start of 2015 and his fourth in five races at Richmond International Raceway.
Erik Jones(i) (third) posted his first top-10 start at Richmond International Raceway. It is his seventh in eight races this season.
Daniel Suarez (ninth) was the fastest qualifying rookie.
(NASCAR Integrated Marketing)(4-24-2015)

Hamlin fastest in Richmond XFINITY practice: #20-Denny Hamlin was fastest during the only practice at Richmond International Raceway with a speed of 124.850mph. #22-Joey Logano was second, followed by: #33-Austin Dillon, #98-Aric Almirola, #54-Erik Jones, #7-Regan Smith, #18-Daniel Suarez, #88-Kevin Harvick, #19-Mike Bliss, and #3-Ty Dillon. All 42 drivers practiced during the session. See complete results on the Richmond practice 1 speeds page (pdf).(4-24-2014)

Kenny Wallace in the #26 at Talladega; Mike Wallace has heart surgery: JGL Racing officials announced that NASCAR veteran driver and TV personality Kenny Wallace would pilot the team's #26 Toyota next week at Talladega Superspeedway for the NASCAR XFINITY Series race. Wallace will drive the second year team's third entry joining JGL Racing teammates JJ Yeley (#28 Toyota) and Eric McClure (#24 Toyota) for the running of the Winn Dixie 300 at the famed Superspeedway in Alabama. The JGL Racing team planned on Mike Wallace driving the #26 Toyota next week in Talladega much like he did for the season opening NASCAR XFINITY Series race in Daytona. However, over last weekend Mike underwent triple bypass heart surgery in the Charlotte area. With a replacement needed, Kenny and his strong success at Talladega was a logical choice to fill in for his brother. "Well this isn't what the plan was," added Mike. "I felt a little chest pain last week so I went to the doctor and the next thing I know I am going in for surgery. My dad had heart surgery about 35 years ago so I thought I was being proactive and taking all of the necessary precautions. This just goes to show that you never know and there are a lot of people walking around out there in the same situation. No matter how healthy we think we are - no one can be careful enough when it comes to our health so everyone needs to go get checked out. My plan was to go to Talladega next week and climb behind the wheel of a car strong enough to win. If all goes as planned I will be going there to watch my brother do just that and root him and the JGL Racing team on. I am focused on getting back to full strength and returning to the driver's seat in the near future."(JGL Racing/Integrity Sports Marketing)(4-24-2015)

Tim Veins Racing to enter trucks: NASCAR has assigned the #27 to Tim Viens in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. Viens will team up with Veteran Team Owner Wayne Peterson who will truck chief for Viens. Viens plans to enter up to 10 races in 2015 in the NCWTS, and up to 5 races in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, with his first race at Texas Motor Speedway on June 5th in the NCWTS. "I am very excited for this new venture and look forward to getting back behind the wheel soon." Viens said. Sponsorship comes from Viens company www.racedaysponsor.com which is a marketing and sponsorship firm that works with several NASCAR teams.(Tim Veins Racing)(4-24-2015)

Gallagher learning dirt cars: Spencer Gallagher knew two things straightaway from the first time he climbed in a dirt car: He loved it, and he had a lot to learn. But learning was the main reason Gallagher, a NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver for GMS Racing, opted to give crate late model racing a try. It helps with car control on pavement, and it's also incredibly fun. Gallagher first tested a dirt car in March at Friendship Speedway in Elkin, N.C. Having a long break between Truck Series races - there wasn't a race between Feb. 28 and March 28 - meant that Gallagher had some time to get acquainted with crate late models. After finishing 14th in the CWTS race on March 28 at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway, Gallagher had risen to eighth in series standings. He made his dirt racing debut two weeks later at Friendship, where Gallagher finished 11th after qualifying 14th. Racing in packs of dirt cars was unlike anything Gallagher had ever done. There were a couple of times that Gallagher drove into turn one, and he was completely guessing where the driver was in front of him. His prior guessing-game experience was limited to late-race strategy at restrictor-plate races. Gallagher isn't quitting his day job for dirt racing, but look for him to continue his unpaved education throughout the year. It's an ongoing process, he added, that he hopes will lead to Victory Lane - on dirt and on asphalt. "Dirt racing really teaches you that seat-of-the-pants feel," he said. "The whole idea is to get something out of your comfort zone, learn a new skill set, and know that that skill set you learn really crosses over into the asphalt side."(Speed Sport)(4-24-2015)

Peters wins charity race: Josh Berry ran into leader Lee Pulliam on the last corner of the last lap, allowing Timothy Peters to win the 8th annual Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown on Thursday night at South Boston Speedway. NASCAR penalized Berry for aggressive driving and dropped the JR Motorsports driver to 17th, the tail end of the cars running at the end. Pulliam, who hit Barry's car in Turn 2 after the checkered flag, declined to talk to the media but tweeted his displeasure calling Berry the "Biggest joke in racing.'' Pulliam finished 10th. Peters, meanwhile, celebrated his first victory in the charity Late Model event. Peters started from the pole and led the first 109 laps. He never dropped out of the top five in the 210-lap race, which ended on the second attempt at a green-white-checkered. Denny Hamlin had engine issues and finished 31st in the 36-car field, completing 69 laps. Chase Elliott placed 22nd after engine issues. David Ragan was collected in a late crash and placed 16th. Jeb Burton had engine issues and finished 28th. Proceeds from the event benefit The Denny Hamlin Foundation, which is committed to raising awareness and funds for the needs of children with cystic fibrosis.(NBC Sports)(4-24-2015)

Comcast drops bid for Time Warner: Comcast [the parent company of XFINITY] is dropping its $45 billion bid for Time Warner Cable after heavy regulatory pushback. The combined company would have put nearly 30 percent of TV and about 55 percent of broadband subscribers under one roof, which would give the resulting behemoth unprecedented power over what Americans watch and download. Competitors, consumer groups, and politicians have criticized the deal, saying it would lead to higher prices and less choice. Even with the Comcast saying Friday that the deal was off, cable companies are likely to keep combining as costs rise for the shows, sports and movies they pipe to subscribers and video customers decrease. Many analysts expect that Charter Communications Inc., which lost out on its bid for Time Warner Cable Inc. to Comcast Corp., to resurrect its effort.(Associated Press)(4-24-2015)

Hydrogen-fueled car to pace Richmond race: Toyota announced the 2016 Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, will pace the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday night, April 25. This allows the Mirai to serve as the first hydrogen-fueled vehicle to pace a NASCAR race. It will lead the Sprint Cup Series field to the green flag at Richmond on Saturday night and emit only water out of its tailpipe along the way. The Mirai is a four-door, mid-size sedan with performance to pace the 43-car NASCAR field at Richmond International Raceway (RIR) while using no gasoline and emitting nothing but water vapor. The groundbreaking fuel cell electric vehicle is powered by hydrogen, refuels in about five minutes and travels up to 300 miles on a full tank. It will arrive first to buyers in California later this year. The Mirai was tested and approved by NASCAR to pace the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race after a test session at RIR earlier today. In the test session, the Mirai met NASCAR's performance requirements to pace the 400-mile NSCS race.(Toyota Racing)(4-24-2015)

New York State Legislature recognizes Watkins Glen: Members of the Watkins Glen International team and TUDOR United SportsCar Championship driver Colin Braun traveled to the State capital this week to meet with legislators and open a New York State Motorsports Exhibit in the Empire State Plaza. In a related move, both houses of the Legislature and Governor Andrew Cuomo acted on a joint Legislative Resolution to proclaim April 19-25, 2015 as "Motorsports Appreciation Week" across The Empire State. State Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, sponsors of the bill, and co-sponsor Assemblyman Chris Friend, were joined by WGI representatives and Braun to help celebrate the contributions of motorsports to New York's economy and culture. During a legislative session, "The Glen" was highlighted for being home to the state's largest sporting event, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend in August, which attracts fans from all 50 states and 16 different countries.(WGI)(4-24-2015)

France says NASCAR open to Chase spot for Busch: NASCAR chairman Brian France isn't sure if Kyle Busch will be granted a waiver to be part of the championship chase when he returns from injury, but said Thursday the sanctioning body would like to "accommodate" him. He'll miss his ninth race this weekend at Richmond International Raceway, but has indicated he'll return to racing this season. The only way he'd be eligible to make the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship is if NASCAR grants him a waiver, and he wins a race that would qualify him for the 16-driver field. He'd also have to be inside the top 30 in points. Those are the rules under a Chase system France altered last year. It gives him more flexibility to grant exemptions to drivers who miss races. "Depends on when he comes back of course, but it'll be more likely than not that we're going to try to figure out how to accommodate him, which is the beauty of our playoff system," France said Thursday during a meeting of The Associated Press Sports Editors at the NASCAR offices in Manhattan. "What happened to him was on us," he said. "We'll balance a lot of things at that point when we have to make a decision, but we're inclined to want to figure that out for sure."(Associated Press)(4-23-2015)

Michael Waltrip in the #55 at Talladega: Two-time Daytona 500 champion Michael Waltrip will drive the #55 Aaron's Dream Machine Toyota when the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Talladega Superspeedway on May 3. Waltrip, founder and co-owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, replaces 22-year-old Brett Moffitt who has driven MWR's #55 since the March 22nd race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana. "Talladega is a place where I know we will be very competitive," said Waltrip who owns four restrictor plate victories including a Talladega win in the fall of 2003. "This will be my 58th Sprint Cup start at Talladega so believe me when I tell you Talladega is some of the best racing in the world and I'm glad I'll get to be part of it again in the Aaron's Dream Machine." The May 3 and Oct. 25 Talladega races are the only remaining races Waltrip is scheduled to drive this season.(Michael Waltrip Racing)(4-23-2015)

Still no date set for RCR appeal: No date has been set for Richard Childress Racing's final appeal of penalties levied against the #31 team of Ryan Newman, NASCAR spokesman Kurt Culbert told USA TODAY Sports. RCR succeeded in convincing a three-person appeals board to reduce some penalties stemming from a tire-manipulation allegation at Fontana, Calif., but a six-week suspension for crew chief Luke Lambert, engineer Philip Surgen and tire specialist James Bender was upheld. Lambert returned to the pit box at Bristol Motor Speedway this past weekend as allowed by terms of the appeals process. Final Appeals Officer Bryan Moss will hear the case.(USA Today)(4-23-2015)

NASCAR issues some rules changes: NASCAR issued a bulletin to Sprint Cup, Xfinity and Camping World Truck teams with changes to the rule book Wednesday. Among the changes is a rule the requires a driver, crew chief and spotter to have radio communication, a new single rear-end differential assembly rule and a single transmission rule. Previously, teams could change as many gears as they wanted but they had to be the right ratio. Now, a single rear end differential assembly rule will be enforced at all events except at Martinsville Speedway, road course events, the Daytona 500, the Sprint Showdown and the NASCAR Sprint All-Star race. Martinsville and road courses are hard on gears. Because of the number of events leading up to the Daytona 500, teams can make a change. It's also easy to break a gear in All-Star qualifying. This rule should eliminate qualifying gears. NASCAR formalized that a driver, crew chief and spotter must be able to communicate on the radio during an event. NASCAR stated that effective Jan. 1, 2016 teams will be permitted only one transmission change after qualifying and before the race for events at Pocono Raceway and road course events. Other changes included adding the new qualifying format for super speedways previously announced and other technical updates.(NBC Sports)(4-23-2015)

Special scheme for McMurray at Richmond: When the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series heads to Richmond International Raceway (RIR) this week, #1-Jamie McMurray will sport the new colors of Energizer EcoAdvanced Batteries. As an extension of the long-standing partnership with Chip Ganassi Racing Teams and in support of the NASCAR industry-wide Green and Sustainability initiative "Race to Green", Energizer will feature the recently introduced, Energizer EcoAdvanced batteries, on the #1 Chevty SS. Energizer EcoAdvanced is a first-of-its-kind battery made with four percent recycled battery material that delivers long-lasting power while creating less impact on the planet. Just like NASCAR teams are always looking for innovative ways to increase performance, Energizer is dedicated to creating a long-lasting battery made of recycled materials, including the continued focus to ultimately deliver a battery made of 40% recycled materials by 2025.(Chip Ganassi Racing), see an image of the car on the #1 team paint schemes page.(4-23-2015)

DOC 360 sponsoring Bowman: Tommy Baldwin Racing welcomes DOC 360 aboard the #7 Chevy this weekend at Richmond International Raceway. DOC 360, as a growing brand, aligns perfectly with up-and-coming athletes as they carve their own name in the sports world. DOC 360 encourages individual creativity and innovation in athletes and those consumers that pride themselves on taking on new challenges. DOC 360, known for its distinctive taste, is available in a variety of regular and diet package sizes.(Tommy Baldwin Racing), see an image of the car on the #7 team paint schemes page.(4-23-2015)

The Pete Store returns to Front Row: The Pete Store will go racing once again with David Gilliland's #38 Ford in 2015. The largest privately owned Peterbilt dealer by sales in the country reached a multi-race agreement with Front Row Motorsports for the current season, starting with Saturday night's race at Richmond International Raceway. The agreement marks the third straight season The Pete Store has partnered with Front Row. The truck dealer has a network of 12 locations in six states and is the provider of the team's race haulers.(Front Row Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #38 team paint schemes page.(4-23-2015)

Richmond International Raceway Notes & Facts - Thursday - poles:
ˇ Buck Baker won the inaugural Coors Light pole at Richmond in 1953 with a speed of 48.465 mph.
ˇ 53 drivers have Coors Light poles at Richmond, led by Richard Petty and Bobby Allison with eight each. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with six.
ˇ Seven drivers have won consecutive Coors Light poles at Richmond. Bobby Allison holds the record for most consecutive Coors Light poles at Richmond with five (1972 - 1974).
ˇ 23 of the 117 (19.6%) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Richmond International Raceway have been won from the Coors Light pole. Only four active drivers have been able to accomplish the feat: Kasey Kahne (2005), Jimmie Johnson (2007), Kyle Busch (2010) and Brad Keselowski (2014).
ˇ The pole starting position is the most proficient starting position in the field, producing more winners than any other starting position at Richmond (23). ˇ 36 of the 117 (30.7%) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Richmond have been won from the front row: 23 from the pole and 13 from second-place.
ˇ 91 of the 117 (77.7%) NASCAR Sprint Cup races at Richmond International Raceway have been won from a top-10 starting position.
ˇ 13 of the 117 (11.1%) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Richmond International Raceway have been won from a starting position outside the top 20.
ˇ Qualifying has been cancelled due to weather conditions in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Richmond International Raceway seven times; most recently the fall of 2014.
ˇ Bobby Labonte (09/11/1993) and Brian Vickers (05/15/2004) posted their first career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coors Light pole at Richmond.
(NASCAR)(4-23-2015)

Richmond Goodyear Tire Notes: Teams in both the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Xfinity Series will run the same tire set-up at Richmond this weekend . . . while these teams ran this left-side tire code (D-4632) at Richmond last September, this is the first time they have run this right-side code (D-4644) . . . this right-side is a Goodyear multi-zone tread tire, which incorporates two distinct compounds on the same tire . . . the inboard two inches of the tread (Endurance Zone) features the same compound that was run at Richmond last fall, while the outboard 10 inches of the tread (Traction Zone) features a compound run at this track prior to that and will provide teams with more grip . . . this tire set-up came out of a Goodyear test at Richmond on April 7 . . . drivers participating in that test were A.J. Allmendinger, Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski and Tony Stewart . . . as on most NASCAR ovals one mile or less in length, teams will not run inner liners in their tires at Richmond.(Goodyear). See tire codes, pressures and more on the Richmond Race Info - Goodyear section.

Chassis selections for this week's race: see the list of many teams [that report or post them] and what chassis were selected by the team to run in the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway on the Richmond Race Info page - Chassis selection area.

Jones keeps busy during Truck Series off weeks: Four-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race winner and Sunoco Rookie of the Year candidate Erik Jones has stated his goal this season is to win the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series championship. Currently sitting third in the NCWTS standings (six points behind leader Matt Crafton), the 18-year-old Michigan native added some impressive accomplishments to his résumé during the six-week break in his Truck Series calendar. Jones won his first NASCAR XFINITY Series race in just his ninth career start at Texas. Additionally, the NASCAR Next member turned his first laps in a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car, subbing for Denny Hamlin in the #11 FedEx Toyota 22 laps into the rain-delayed Bristol race. Jones made it back to Bristol from Cornelius, North Carolina, 20 minutes prior to the restart of the race to fill-in for an injured Hamlin, who was suffering from back and neck spasms. He brought the #11 home in 26th after finishing fourth in the XFINITY Series event the day before.(NASCAR Integrated Marketing)(4-23-2015)

Kansas Speedway to make safety improvements: Driver safety is always an issue for NASCAR, but it vaulted back into the headlines when Kyle Busch suffered a compound fracture in his right leg and a broken left foot in late February at Daytona International Speedway. Many drivers, including Sprint Cup points leader Kevin Harvick, who crashed into the same wall at Daytona a year earlier, went public with pleas for safer track conditions after Busch's wreck. Apparently, Kansas Speedway - which installed SAFER barriers, or Steel and Foam Energy Reduction barriers, along its track walls in 2004 - was listening, as it announced several safety improvement Wednesday ahead of next month's NASCAR races. After an internal review by Kansas Speedway's owner, the International Speedway Corp., in conjunction with NASCAR, two sand barrels will be installed at the leading edge of the pit-road exit, an additional tire pack will be installed at the pit-road entrance, and interior walls along turns two and three will be extended. More safety enhancements are planned before the season's second race weekend in October. "The safety of our guests and the competitors is, and always has been, our No. 1 priority," Kansas Speedway president Pat Warren said in a statement. "Ongoing facility evaluations will continue and we will provide updates as circumstances warrant."(Kansas City Star)(4-23-2015)

NASCAR issues memo about inspection process: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Director Richard Buck was expected to send a memo to teams by Thursday that formalized penalties for failing to pass inspection at the start of the race weekend, before qualifying and before the race. In a draft of the memo acquired by NBC Sports, Buck wrote to teams: "Based on the data that we have collected thus far in 2015, we have identified several trends. One trend in particular highlights the failure rate during inspections. In an effort to ensure all competitors an equal and fair opportunity to participate, we will be implementing the following:"
All cars must pass initial inspection and receive a final sticker to be eligible to practice.
Cars that fail qualifying inspection twice will receive a written warning.
Cars that fail qualifying inspection three times also will be penalized 15 minutes of practice time at the next event.
Cars that fail pre-race inspection twice will receive a written warning.
Cars that fail pre-race inspection three times also will be penalized 15 minutes of practice time at the next event.
Buck wrote in the memo: "Based on the above, there WOULD HAVE BEEN 9 written warnings issued at Bristol and an additional 3 competitors that would have received time penalties." NASCAR's rule book states that multiple warnings to the same member or team can lead to a P1 penalty.(NBC Sports)(4-23-2015)

Darby leaving NASCAR UPDATE: NASCAR confirmed Wednesday that John Darby, who formerly oversaw the Sprint Cup garage, will be leaving the series soon. No reason was given. Darby had been working on special projects most recently for NASCAR. He served as the Sprint Cup Series director from 2002-13 before Richard Buck took over in 2014. NASCAR initially announced that Darby was leaving his position as Cup director in 2010, but it took four years to replace him. Darby replaced Gary Nelson as Cup series director in 2002. Darby was the director of what is now the Xfinity Series from 1999-2001 before moving to Cup.(NBC Sports)(4-22-2015)
UPDATE: John Darby won't spend a lot of time talking about the details of his departure from NASCAR. Yes, he's leaving. But the hows and the whys are not something to be talked about as much as his three decades in the sport. Darby had served as the Sprint Cup Series director for 12 years before being replaced by Richard Buck prior to the 2014 season. A former racer before becoming a track official in Rockford, Illinois, Darby spent more than 25 years working for NASCAR and was the director of what is now the Xfinity Series from 1999-2001 prior to his promotion to run the sport's top series. Calling himself a "blessed individual," Darby is in his final days at NASCAR with no job on the horizon. "I think I'm going to take a month and sit on a beach and figure out what I really want to do next," the 59-year-old said in a phone interview Wednesday. So was he fired? Was it one of those mutual "parting of the ways" or what? NASCAR officials would only confirm that he's leaving. "I'll be honest with you, the importance of that part, to me, is nothing," Darby said when asked whether his leaving was a mutual decision. "What's more important is where I've been, what I've been involved in and what I hope to see grow in the future. At the end of the day, as I do leave the company, I will never leave the sport," Darby said. "It's in my heart and my veins and it will always be there. At the same time, I think that I'm leaving it in a better spot than what it was when I got here. That's all that matters to me. ... Everything is good. I'm still a stronghold and an ally for NASCAR and the sport of NASCAR. That is something that will never go away."(ESPN.com)(4-22-2015)

Hamlin expects to be fine for Richmond races: Less than a week after neck spasms forced him to hand over his car to a relief driver 22 laps into Sunday's waterlogged event at Bristol Motor Speedway, #11-Denny Hamlin plans to be back behind the wheel for Saturday night's Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond International Raceway. Hamlin, who turned over his seat to Joe Gibbs Racing XFINITY Series driver Erik Jones in Thunder Valley, also expects to compete in Friday night's XFINITY race at RIR. Hamlin watched most of Sunday's race at Bristol from the #11 Joe Gibbs Racing team pit box as Jones brought his Toyota home in 26th. "Obviously, getting out of the car on Sunday was a very tough decision, and Erik did an admirable job under difficult circumstances," Hamlin said in a team release issued Wednesday morning. After treatment this week, I feel close to 100 percent, and I'm confident that I'll be good to go this weekend in Richmond. It's a great track for our team, and one that means a lot to me personally. Hopefully, we can go out there and compete for the win on Saturday night."(FoxSports)(4-22-2015)

Bristol TV Ratings: Rain-delayed NASCAR Sprint Cup racing from Bristol earned a 1.4 overnight rating on Fox Sports 1 Sunday evening, down 22% from rain-delayed coverage of the same race last year (1.8). This year's coverage aired from 6:30-10:30pm/et, while last year's aired from 7-9:45pm. The race was originally scheduled to air on FOX, which earned a 2.9 overnight for less than 15 minutes of live racing - down 29% from a 4.1 for 45 minutes of racing last year.(Sports Media Watch)(4-22-2015)

American Ethanol making first appearance of 2015: The #3 Chevy team will sport the black and green colors of American Ethanol this weekend at Richmond International Raceway. American Ethanol, a renewable source of cleaner burning energy from the bounty of America's farmers, helps create new green jobs and a renewed sense of pride for the American worker, while helping to achieve greater energy security for our country. Launched by Growth Energy and the National Corn Growers Association, along with the support of other partners, American Ethanol is a breakthrough brand that seeks to expand consumer awareness of the benefits of ethanol and E15, and takes the NASCAR Green initiative to the next level.(RCR), see an image of the car on the #3 team paint schemes page.(4-22-2014)

Richmond International Raceway Notes & Facts - Wednesday - history:
ˇ Originally known as the Atlantic Rural Exposition Fairgrounds, Richmond International Raceway held its first race in 1946 as a half-mile dirt track.
ˇ The first NASCAR Sprint Cup race was April 19, 1953 won by Lee Petty.
ˇ The spring 1964 race was run on a Tuesday night under temporary lighting.
ˇ The track name changed to Virginia State Fairgrounds in 1967.
ˇ The track surface was changed from dirt to asphalt between races in 1968.
ˇ The track name changed to Richmond Fairgrounds Raceway in 1969.
ˇ The track was re-measured to .542-mile for 1970.
ˇ The track was rebuilt as a three-quarters-mile D-shaped oval following the Feb. 21, 1988 race.
ˇ The first race under permanent lights was Sept. 7, 1991.
ˇ The first season with both races as night races was 1999.
(NASCAR)(4-22-2015)

Sad News - Marvin Ragan: Marvin V. Ragan, age 72, of Unadilla died Tuesday, April 21 from complications of Acute Myeloid Leukemia after being diagnosed with the disease in November, 2012. Mr. Ragan was born and reared in Henderson and lived in Unadilla the past 41 years. Mr. Ragan served honorably in the US Navy including 3 tours of duty in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with 2 bronze stars, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, the Navy Excellence (E) Medal, the National Defense Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and he proudly wore his Navy Flight Wings with over 700 hours of flight time while serving in Vietnam.
He was an avid NASCAR fan and racing participant, having started racing in 1966 and periodically owned and drove race cars for over 30 years, driving his last race in Savannah in 2010.; He owned a NASCAR Winston Cup team for over 10 years in the 1980's and early 1990's and was a partner in the Watermelon Capital Speedway in Cordele for the past 10 years.
Service info and full obituary at the Brannen-NeSmith Funeral Home website.
His son Brett Ragan currently works for Roush Fenway Racing. His brother Ken Ragan, drove in 50 Sprint Cup Series races, mostly for his brother Marvin. And his nephew, David Ragan, currently drives for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Sprint Cup Series, subbing for Kyle Busch in the #18 Toyota.(4-22-2015)

Sad News - Robert Harrington: Robert Louis (Boobie) Harrington, age 72, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2015 at his home. He was born November 19, 1942 in Union County, NC, son of the late Robert Lee Harrington and Mary Cooper Harrington. In earlier years, Boobie was a body man for the former Beasley-Cross Chevrolet Company and raced the local dirt tracks at that time. Later, he entered NASCAR racing with K & K Insurance, then J.D. Stacy Racing, and had also served as a crew chief for various drivers over the years. In the 1990's he became a car owner and started a wheel service business for many NASCAR teams. Boobie was also a member of Canaan Baptist Church, Salisbury, NC and was active in setting up several local Gospel singings. The funeral service will be held at 2:00pm Thursday, April 23, 2015 at Homestead Baptist Church, Kannapolis, NC officiated by Rev. Bruce Graham and Rev. Johnny (Buck) Canup. Entombment will follow at Carolina Memorial Park Plaza Mausoleum, Kannapolis, NC. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:0pm Wednesday, April 22, 2015 at Whitley's Funeral Home. Survivors include his wife of fifty years, Carolyn Aycock Harrington; one daughter, Crystal H. Barringer of China Grove, NC; two grandchildren, Chase Barringer and Kody Barringer of China Grove, NC; one brother, Charles Harrington & wife, Gail of Kannapolis, NC; and three sisters, Barbara Durham and Nancy Clark, both of Kannapolis, NC; and Dee Bost & husband, Dan of China Grove, NC. Memorials may be made to Canaan Baptist Church, 785 Barringer Street, Salisbury, NC 28146. On-line condolences may be left at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com.(4-22-2015)

Jamie Dick says he will return to racing: Sidelined since he was diagnosed with diabetes more than a month ago, Jamie Dick vows that he'll be back racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. "I have to get back, even if it is one time, just to say diabetes didn't end my driving carer,'' Dick told NBC Sports on Tuesday at Viva Motorsports' shop. "My driving career is going to end on my terms, what's good for me and my family and my business, not what's good for diabetes. Using diabetes as an excuse can't start when I'm 26 because I don't want it to be an excuse when I'm 36, 46 or 76." Dick says he doesn't have a timetable for his return because doctors are determining what type of diabetes he has and prescribing the proper amount of medicine. Once done, Dick said he'll be back in the #55 Viva Motorsports car for the first time since racing March 14 at Phoenix International Raceway.(NBC Sports)(4-22-2015)

Promise Keepers featured on the #8 at Richmond: TriStar Motorsports and Blake Koch partner with Promise Keepers this weekend at Richmond International Raceway. Koch will pilot the #8 Promise Keepers Toyota Camry in the ToyotaCare 250 under the lights Friday night. Promise Keepers is a catalytic event for men, challenging them to embrace their calling to lead their families, churches and communities in worship of, and obedience to, Jesus the Messiah. Through powerful worship and anointed preaching, men are called out to become everything that God has created them to be, and then to return to their families, churches and communities with a commitment to hear and obey God's Word in the power of the Holy Spirit. Sponsorship for the #8 Toyota Camry was funded by two anonymous donors that attended a Promise Keepers event last weekend in Phoenix. The two anonymous donors are sponsoring Koch's ride in an effort to introduce the Promise Keepers event to the NASCAR community.(TriStar Motorsports)(4-22-2015)

Bleacher Report sponsoring Wallace at Richmond: Roush Fenway Racing and Bubba Wallace have teamed up with Bleacher Report in an effort to amplify the two huge sporting weekends on the horizon. Wallace, an avid sports fan, will carry Bleacher Report on his #6 Ford Mustang this weekend when NASCAR rolls into Richmond International Raceway. One of the most promising up and coming drivers in NASCAR, Wallace heads into Richmond fourth in the NASCAR XFINITY Series point standings; only seven races into his rookie season. Last season he took the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series by storm, winning four races and finishing third in the points in only his second season.(Roush Fenway), see an image of the car on the #6 team paint schemes page.(4-22-2015)

Breyers making first appearance on #7: The Richmond event marks the first time this season that #7-Regan Smith will carry Breyers colors in the NASCAR XFINITY Series. Smith will also race the iconic ice-cream brand's colors at Dover later this spring. Richmond International Raceway has been a good place for Regan Smith to race the past two seasons. Smith has finishes of sixth, eighth, third and fifth in JRM Chevrolets the past four races.(JR Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #7 team paint schemes page.(4-22-2015)

Weller returns to the #90 at Richmond: Jimmy Weller will compete in his second of at least four planned races for the 2015 season this weekend at Richmond International Raceway. Earlier this year, Weller made his season debut at Atlanta Motor Speedway where he qualified 28th. In that event, Weller cut a tire and sustained moderate damage to his car, which resulted in a 33rd-place finish for the King Autosport team. Jimmy will make his second NASCAR XFINITY Series start at Richmond International Raceway on Friday night. Last season, the Hubbard, Ohio native suffered a mechanical failure coming to the green flag, which immediately ended his night. However, the driver does have some success in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East at the 0.75-mile track, including top-20 finishes in both starts at the Virginia short track.(Jimmy Weller Racing)(4-22-2015)

Kentucky Speedway's Ford Fan Day returns April 25: Kentucky Speedway's Ford Fan Day returns Saturday, April 25 from 11:00am-4:00pm. The free event gives visitors a chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the venue while enjoying family oriented activities, food, pace car rides, musical entertainment, and meeting two-time Daytona 500 Champion Sterling Marlin from 1:00-2:45pm. Guests will be able to tour the spotters stand, flag stand, garages, owner's suite, press box, campgrounds. As well as see Gravelrama, FSAE Cars from the University of Cincinnati Bearcat Motorsports and Fire and Safety vehicles. Visitors are able to have their photo taken in Victory Lane with the Quaker State 400 presented by Advance Auto Parts trophy and the #22 Penske show car. Fans can learn more about the speedway from our General Manager Mark Simendinger during the "Ask the GM" question-and-answer session at 1:45pm. in Bluegrass Hall in the infield. Fans will also be able to talk to motorsports experts during the "Racing Roundtable" chats at 1:00pm, and 2:15pm. The popular Kids Zone will be filled with activities such as face painting, Hot Wheels racing, a pit stop tire challenge, inflatables, popcorn, and bean bag toss into tires. The complete Ford Fan Day schedule is available at http://www.kentuckyspeedway.com/fans/ford_fan_day.(Kentucky Speedway)(4-22-2015)

Kansas Speedway offering VIP packages: To provide race fans a more behind-the-scenes look at race day for the SpongeBob SquarePants 400, Kansas Speedway is selling a limited number of VIP Packages for Saturday, May 9. The day will start with early gate access, a reception in the Kansas Speedway President's Suite, followed by a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage tour, access to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver's meeting, VIP access for the Shooter Jennings pre-race concert, along with backstage access for driver introductions. The day will be hosted by former NASCAR driver and MRN personality Glenn Jarrett. Each VIP package is $500 and includes a reserved parking pass. A grandstand ticket is not included in this package and each fan must have a grandstand ticket to purchase the VIP package. To purchase a VIP package, call 866.460.7223. (Kansas Speedway)(4-22-2015)

Harvick to be honored at the White House UPDATE: Reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick and his #4 Stewart-Haas Racing team will be honored by President Obama at the White House on Tuesday, April 21. The visit will continue the president's tradition of honoring athletes and sports teams for their efforts to give back to their communities. The event will be held at 2:45pm/et and will be streamed live by the White House website. Harvick most recently visited the White House in 2012 when President Obama welcomed the participants in the 2011 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup.(4-17-2015)
UPDATE: The #4 Chevy took up residence on the South Lawn of the White House Tuesday as Kevin Harvick was honored by President Obama for his 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup championship. Obama welcomed Harvick, his wife DeLana, crew chief Rodney Childers and co-owner/teammate Tony Stewart for an afternoon ceremony under sunny skies and pleasant conditions in Washington. The only one missing - Harvick's two-year old son Keelan, a fixture at many NASCAR races. "My son stayed home this time," Harvick said. "We didn't figure he was quite ready to terrorize the White House yet, with running around and everything he likes to do. Hopefully somewhere down the line, he gets to come back." Harvick said just being at the White House was an honor but he was most happy for his crew, who got to experience the pomp and ceremony for the first time.(USA Today)(4-21-2015)

Sad News - Steve Byrnes: Mr. Steven Patrick Byrnes, age 56, of Fort Mill, S.C., went to be with the Lord on April 21, 2015.
Surviving are his wife of 22 years, Karen Byrnes; son Bryson, 12, a sixth grader at Charlotte Christian School; parents Jerry and Claire Byrnes of Charlotte; sister Betsy Byrnes of Charlotte; brother Dan Byrnes and wife Tammy of Charlotte; nephews Tyler, 21, and Dylan Byrnes, 17; and niece Samantha Byrnes, 13, of Charlotte.
Steve was born April 14, 1959, in Chicago, and was raised in New Carrollton, Md. He attended Church of Christ at Gold Hill Road, was a 1981 graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in Radio, Television and Film, and played football for one year at James Madison University before transferring to the University of Maryland.
Steve enjoyed a successful and highly respected television broadcasting career for 30 years. He joined the FOX Sports family in 2001, hosting and reporting for multiple NASCAR programs and serving as a pit road reporter for NASCAR on FOX's broadcast of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races from 2001-2014. Most recently, he was the play-by-play announcer for FOX Sports 1 in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, and was co-host of NASCAR Race Hub for the network.
Prior to joining FOX, Steve also hosted Darrell Waltrip's Racers on TNN, worked as a pit road reporter for CBS, WTBS and TNN, and hosted a variety of NASCAR programs for The History Channel and TNN, for which he moved to Charlotte in 1985 and remained in the area ever since. His first on-air job was at WCIV-TV in Charleston, S.C., in 1982, after commencing his television career as weekend sports producer at WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C., immediately following graduation from college. Steve also called play-by-play for a Carolina Panthers/Minnesota Vikings NFL game on FOX and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races for DirecTV Hot Pass.
Despite all his career accolades, Steve's greatest accomplishment was his son, Bryson, who is growing into a more Godly, compassionate and respectable young man every day. Steve's passion was spending every moment possible with Bryson, especially watching him play football and basketball and helping prepare him to play for the Charlotte Christian School football team as a seventh grader in the 2015-'16 school year. The other light of his life was Karen, with whom his relationship extended well beyond that of a spouse. The two were inseparable since meeting in 1988 while she was the public relations representative for Benny Parsons in his last season as a NASCAR driver.
Attending Appalachian State University football games was one of the family's favorite activities, in addition to cheering for the University of Maryland's football and basketball teams; the Washington Redskins; the Carolina Panthers; following NASCAR; and watching nephews Tyler and Dylan play baseball. Steve also delighted in gardening, travel with his family, photographing sports, nature and sunsets.
In addition to being a wonderful, loving and Godly husband, father, son and brother, Steve was an excellent friend, colleague and mentor to all who knew and loved him. His indelible impact extended even to the millions of television viewers who watched him every week over the years, as evidenced by the outpouring of public support he received following his cancer diagnosis in August 2013. Steve became a tangible example of strength, courage and fortitude to all who witnessed his battle with cancer and his personal crusade to spend as many days as possible with Karen and Bryson. He was honored to be designated as the keynote speaker at the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life on June 7, 2014, in Charlotte, where he shared the inspiring story of his battle with hundreds of cancer survivors, caregivers and families during the Luminaria Ceremony that evening.
A public figure who always made time for others and made strangers feel like longtime and valued friends, Steve took particular solace in his private life with his family. He was always smiling, supportive, selfless and loving. Upon his original diagnosis, Steve quickly found the positive in the situation and put his entire focus into his treatments, simultaneously vowing not to miss a single moment with his son. His motto and daily inspiration became "Be present" in every moment of his family's lives. Now Steve is present with the Lord, and until we see him again, he is present in our hearts and memories forever.
Steve, we give you back to the Lord with eternal love and great appreciation for His gift of you to us. We love you.
Funeral services are pending.(Fox Sports)
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Steve's honor to any of the following:
Church of Christ at Gold Hill Road, 1055 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, SC 29708

Charlotte Christian School, 7301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC 28270

NASCAR Foundation, One Daytona Blvd., 6th Floor, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Charlotte Christian School - Byrnes Fund
Attn: Barry Giller
7301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC 28270(4-21-2015)

NASCAR Statement on Steve Byrnes: "NASCAR extends its condolences to the many friends, FOX Sports colleagues and family of Steve Byrnes. Whether you had the privilege of knowing him or if you watched him on television for the last three decades, Steve's work ethic and authenticity made him a beloved individual inside and outside the garage. His level of professionalism was matched only by the warmth he showed everyone he met. He battled cancer with tenacity, and was a true inspiration to everyone in the NASCAR family. Simply stated, we'll miss Steve dearly. Our thoughts are especially with his wife Karen and son Bryson during this difficult time." - NASCAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian France(NASCAR)(4-21-2015)

Honor and Remember featured on #33 at Richmond: Circle Sport and team owner Joe Falk announce a special partnership with the national non-profit organization, Honor and Remember, Inc., to promote the national symbol honoring all fallen service members and their families. Alex Kennedy will pilot the #33 Honor and Remember Chevy SS featuring this emblem of remembrance during the April 25th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway. Honor and Remember was founded on Memorial Day 2008 to promote the adoption of a nationally-recognized flag to serve as a constant reminder of the brave men and women in uniform who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and to say thank you to the grieving families they left behind. Honor and Remember flags have flown at race tracks across the country and will be visibly prominent during the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Memorial Day Weekend. "We are truly humbled by Circle Sport's willingness to help us in this noble cause," states George Lutz, founder of Honor and Remember, whose son George Anthony Lutz II was killed by a sniper's bullet while on patrol in Fallujah, Iraq, in 2005. "Having this message displayed on a NASCAR Sprint Cup car will raise tremendous awareness with millions of patriotic fans who understand the importance of honoring the fallen and supporting the families of these heroes."(Circle Sport PR), see an image of the car on the #33 team paint schemes page.(4-21-2015)

NASCAR Embarks on Third Annual Race to Green Effort: To commemorate one of the most innovative and holistic sustainability platforms in the country, NASCAR announced its third annual NASCAR Race to Green initiative. Beginning Monday and culminating with Saturday's TOYOTA OWNERS 400 at Richmond International Raceway, NASCAR Race to Green will build awareness around the programs the governing body, industry and multiple partners have created to help protect and preserve the environment. This year, NASCAR and the Environmental Protection Agency are inviting fans to measure their environmental impact at NASCAR.com/green and receive tips from Official Partners on how to reduce their carbon footprint. NASCAR drivers will reward select fans who complete the online tool with personalized messages on social media using the campaign's hashtag #NASCARGreen. During NASCAR Race to Green week the color green will be prominently displayed on race vehicles and at tracks across NASCAR national series, NASCAR Home Tracks and International Series. The NASCAR Green mark will be featured on the A-post of race cars, pit boxes, hauler flags and NASCAR officials' uniforms. Drivers Austin Dillon and Elliott Sadler will run green-themed paint schemes during the weekend's national series events. NASCAR Race to Green will also highlight the sustainability efforts of NASCAR Official Partners, who work closely with NASCAR, year-round, to amplify the reach of NASCAR Green.(NASCAR)(4-21-2015)

Fans select Keselowski's All-Star scheme: In honor of their 25th year together, Miller Lite and Team Penske let fans decide the paint scheme of Brad Keselowski's #2 Miller Lite Ford for the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race in May. With 43 percent of the vote, the winner was "The Original" Miller Lite Blue Deuce, which made its debut with Team Penske on the #2 entry back in 1997 with driver Rusty Wallace. That season, the Blue Deuce went to Victory Lane at Richmond International Raceway. In second place with 37 percent was the "Gold" car. For the 2007 Daytona Shootout and NASCAR All-Star Race, Miller Lite unveiled this special gold color paint scheme to celebrate Miller Lite's fourth gold award in the American-Style Light lager category at the World Beer Cup. The "Classic Pour" scheme earned the remaining 20 percent. From 2010-2012, there were plenty of trips to Victory Lane to celebrate in different variations of this paint scheme, including a 2010 sweep of the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race and Coca-Cola 600 as well as Miller Lite and Team Penske's first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship in 2012.(Team Penske), see an image of the car on the #2 team paint schemes page.(4-21-2015)

Bristol Race and Commercial Breakdown: For those of you NASCAR fans that like stats and love to hate commercials, here is the breakdown for Sunday's race. Began recording at the call to start the engines of the race at 2:20 PM, stopped at the rain delay at 2:43 PM; began recording again at 6:48 PM, then stopped at the waving of the checkered flag at 10:28 PM (all times are EST). Did not keep records for the pre- and post-race coverage, or rain delay coverage. Fox and FS1 were the broadcast team for this event.
Total number of commercials: 89
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 53
Number of traditional commercials (not split-screen): 85
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 52
Number of 'Side-by-Side' commercials during race broadcast (split-screen): 4
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 4
Number of times Fox utilized 'Side-by-Side' commercials during this broadcast: 1
Total number of brief promos of products/services during the race broadcast (including company logos 'floating' in corners of the screen): 86
Total amount of time these brief promos take during broadcast: app. 4 min. 45 sec.
Start time to record race/commercial periods: 2:20 PM
Stop time for rain delay: 2:43 PM
Restart time to record race/commercial periods: 6:48 PM
End time to record race/commercial periods: 10:28 PM
Total minutes of complete race broadcast: 243
Minutes of race broadcast: 202
Minutes of traditional commercials (not split-screen): 41
Minutes of 'Side-by-Side' commercials (split-screen): 2
Number of missed restarts: 0
Number of 'mystery cautions' (debris not shown): 0
Total race brdcst time 202 Total comm. brdcst time 41
See full reports, sponsor links, much more details at CawsnJaws.com.(4-21-2015)

Top 10 Driver Ratings at Richmond International Raceway:
#11-Denny Hamlin 110.7
#4-Kevin Harvick 110.3
#18-Kyle Busch 109.8
#15-Clint Bowyer 99.6
#24-Jeff Gordon 99.3
#14-Tony Stewart 94.0
#31-Ryan Newman 92.5
#2-Brad Keselowski 91.6
#41-Kurt Busch 91.5
#99-Carl Edwards 89.1
Note: Driver Ratings compiled from 2005-2014 races (20 total) among active drivers at Richmond International Raceway. Formula combining the following categories: Win, Finish, Top-15 Finish, Average Running Position while on Lead Lap, Average Speed Under Green, Fastest Lap, Led Most Laps, Lead-Lap Finish. Maximum: 150 points per race.<
See an explanation how the Driver Rating is calculated at NASCAR.com.(NASCAR)

VroomBrands joins #97 team at Richmond: Obaika Racing announces VroomBrands, a unique vacation experience provider, delivering exquisite and memorable vacations from the four corners of the earth - to sponsor their Chevrolet #97 NASCAR Xfinity Series starting at Richmond International Raceway. VroomBrands, with a home office in North Carolina, offers the picture-perfect experience to satisfy all travel needs. Their salacious chunks of diverse cultures, sights and tours, cover Africa, Asia, North America, South America and the Middle East. As the first African-owned NASCAR team, Obaika Racing designed the paint scheme with their rich heritage in mind. The noteworthy Zebra print in reference to Safari packages offered by VroomBrands will be a memorable design for the Xfinity Series.(Obaika Racing)(4-21-2015)

XFINITY Entry List:There are 41 cars on the preliminary entry list for Saturday's ToyotaCare 250 at Richmond International Raceway. A few notes:
Timmy Hill is entered in the #13 again;
Carlos Contreras remains in the #15;
Denny Hamlin will drive the #20 for Joe Gibbs;
Dylan Lupton will be in the #25 for Athenian Motorsports;
Derek White will drive the #40;
Brennan Poole remains in the #42;
Erik Jones moves to the JGR #54;
Brandon Gdovic returns to the #55;
Jimmy Weller is back in the #90.(4-21-2015)
See the complete list on the Richmond entry list page.

Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown to be shown tap-delayed on NBCSN: The Denny Hamlin Foundation announced that the eighth-annual Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown, presented by FedEx, has partnered with NBCSN to present the April 23rd celebrity Late Model charity race held at South Boston Speedway. Thursday's race is expected to air as a one-hour special in May amid the network's coverage of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Showdown, which features top NASCAR drivers competing against the best regional Late Model drivers, again serves as a weekday prelude to the weekend NASCAR races at Richmond International Raceway. Proceeds from the 200-lap Showdown go to support the Denny Hamlin Foundation, which has donated $150,000 in grants to help fund the Denny Hamlin Cystic Fibrosis Research Lab at Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU and support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-accredited Therapeutics Development Center at VCU. Last month, South Boston Speedway announced two new fan-friendly features for the Showdown, including a post-event fireworks show sponsored by Danville Toyota and Scion and a very limited special suite ticket package available to the first 25 people. The $200 package includes a suite ticket, invitation to the driver's meeting and the opportunity to attend a celebrity driver meet-and-greet and autograph session. General admission tickets are still available for $25 and children, ages six and under, will be admitted free with a paid adult.(South Boston Speedway)(4-21-2015)

Toyota to sponsor Kansas Truck race: Kansas Speedway officials announced today that Toyota will sponsor the May 8 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, naming it the Toyota Tundra 250. Since 2004, Toyota has four wins, 25 top-Fives, and 47 top-10 finishes in the Truck Series at Kansas Speedway, including winning the last two Truck Series races. Toyota began racing in NASCAR with its entry into the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in 2004. Since then, Tundras have earned 131 victories along with seven manufacturer's championships (2006-2010, 2013 and 2014). In addition, Tundra drivers have tallied five driver championships in the series with Matt Crafton most recently making series history by becoming the first back-to-back champion in the Camping World Truck Series.(Kansas Speedway)(4-21-2015)

Keloorah features 12 concert acts over two NASCAR weekends at Michigan: NASCAR race fans and music festival fans both will have reasons to celebrate this summer at Michigan International Speedway. Keloorah, a music festival experience, will take place on Friday and Saturday of each NASCAR weekend at MIS this summer. Twelve acts, spanning country and alternative rock, along with several EDM Djs will perform at Keloorah. Keloorah kicks off on Friday, June 12, when country music takes center stage with Montgomery Gentry, Drake White and The Big Fire as well as Tim Dugger. Alternative rock rounds out the June weekend on Saturday, June 13, with American Authors, Bear Hands and IAMDYNAMITE. Then, on Friday, Aug. 14, alternative rock kicks off the festival with Kongos, Big Data and Saints of Valory, followed by country music on Sunday, Aug. 15, with Logan Mize, Dylan Scott, Tim Dugger and a special, headlining act to be announced later. Besides the live shows, there will be deejays, a go-kart experience, a video game arcade, an outdoor sports bar, tailgate games, foam parties and paint parties - all within the NASCAR event weekends and on MIS property. Keloorah is behind Turn 3, central to many of MIS' MISCamping.com campgrounds. A Sunday admission ticket or infield or APEX wristband that allows access to the Sunday Quicken Loans 400 and/or Pure Michigan 400 will gain access to Keloorah on Friday and Saturday of those event weekends.(MIS)(4-21-2015)

Entry List for the Toyota Owners 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway is posted, 45 teams/drivers [for 43 spots] are listed, including: #25-Elliott, #30-Hornaday, #32-Gase, #33-Kennedy, #34-Sorenson, #83-DeBenedetto.
Drivers who need to be in the top-36 in speed and have no provisional available to them (lowest in owners points): #30-Hornaday (49th in owner pts), #25-Elliott (48th)
Drivers who would miss the race if qualifying is canceled (least race attempts): #30-Hornaday (4 attempts), #25-Elliott (1)
See the full entry list on Jayski.com's Richmond Entry List

Jones fills in for Hamlin at Bristol: #11-Denny Hamlin suffered a neck spasm Sunday and was replaced by Joe Gibbs Racing development driver Erik Jones for the remainder of the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Hamlin said he pulled something in his neck during the 22 laps that were run prior to a rain delay of nearly four hours. He was running fifth when the race was halted. The 18-year-old Jones, who has never competed in a Cup car, got in the JGR #11 car when the race resumed Sunday night. "I just pulled something in my neck to upper back about lap 12," Hamlin said during the race telecast. "I started going backwards at that point. ... I stretched it out and we've been working on it the last few hours. I'm not 100 percent. With this format, it's all about winning, and there was no way I would have been able to go out there and compete for a win. It's just doing my team a complete injustice for me to go out there and run a bunch of laps. Instead, I think it's just better to have Erik come here and run some laps, get used to these Cup cars. We know where he is going to be in a few years."(ESPN.com)(4-20-2015)

Tony Gibson suffering from kidney stones: Driver Denny Hamlin was not the only one who needed a replacement when Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race went back to green after a lengthy rain delay at Bristol Motor Speedway. Stewart-Haas Racing crew chief Tony Gibson was forced to watch the remainder of the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes and Stand Up To Cancer from his motor coach after kidney stones sent him to the local hospital emergency room. SHR vice president of competition Greg Zipadelli and team engineer John Klausmeyer took over crew chief duties for Kurt Busch's #41 team when the race went back to green.(FoxSports)(4-20-2015)

Keselowski explains early race crash: #2-Brad Keselowski wrecked on lap 21 of the Food City 500, bringing out the first caution of the race and collecting his teammate, #22-Logano.
What did you feel? Did the rain drops have anything to do with it?
Keselowski: "It's been raining since we started the race. It was just a really light sprinkle and the track was just barely dry. I don't know. The rain was coming in and out and the car just took off on me. I would like to blame the rain, but I honestly don't know. Usually when a car gets that far sideways and it's kind of out of nowhere there's a reason behind it. I just really hate that I tore up my teammate in the process. That's really a bummer. I felt like I had a pretty normal line and it just flew crazy sideways on me. It's a bummer for everybody at Team Penske to tear up both cars that way. I hate racing in the rain, but I understand the position that NASCAR is in. They want to get the race going and this is one of those days where it's gonna just keep raining off and on and we're trying to get as many laps in at a time as we can to give the fans the best race possible, but we're racing in the rain to do it and that's what happens."
(Ford Racing)(4-20-2015)

Gene Haas Foundation grants $1 million: The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and Danville Community College (DCC) are the recipients of a $1 million grant from the Gene Haas Foundation, which has granted more than $11 million to entities that champion advanced manufacturing education. The $1 million grant will be used to build the new Gene Haas Center for Integrated Machining on the IALR campus in Danville, Virginia, and support a third-year level of learning for students completing DCC's Precision Machining Technology two-year degree program. The experience will provide students the opportunity to train in an authentic manufacturing workflow cell as part of the Capstone Integrated Machining Technology project being implemented for the first time in America through the IALR/DCC partnership. In conjunction with the grant, a commemorative decal will adorn the decklid of Stewart-Haas Racing's #41 Haas Automation Chevy SS that Kurt Busch will drive in the April 25 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway.(Stewart Haas Racing)(4-20-2015)

Gdovic returning to the #55 at Richmond: Brandon Gdovic is going home. Following his successful debut at Texas Motor Speedway, Yorktown, Virginia based driver Brandon Gdovic has been signed by Viva Motorsports to drive the #55 WindStax Wind Power Systems Chevy Camaro in the NASCAR Xfinity Series ToyotaCare 250 at Richmond. Gdovic has a high comfort level at his home track, having a number of strong finishes in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, including a 2nd in 2013. With a race in the Xfinity series under his belt with Viva Motorsports, Brandon has a better understanding of what to expect from the team and the car, but this time on a track he's familiar with.(Gdovic PR)(4-20-2015)

Almirola returns to the #98 at Richmond: Aric Almirola and Smithfield Foods will team up with Biagi DenBeste Racing for the NASCAR XFINITY Series race at Richmond International Raceway April 24. Almirola will pilot the #98 Smithfield Ford in his third NXS race this season at Smithfield's home track. He is slotted to race five more XFINITY races in the #98 Biagi DenBeste Racing Ford. Almirola raced the #98 Ford at Daytona International Speedway and Las Vegas Motor Speedway earlier this year, where he scored two Top-11 finishes.(RPM)(4-20-2015)

Kenseth wins at Bristol: #20-Matt Kenseth won the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway for his 1st win of the season, 4th win at Bristol Motor Speedway and his 32nd career win. The race ended with one green-white-checkered attempt.
#48-Johnson finished second, the rest of the top 10: #24-Gordon, #17-Stenhouse, Jr., #31-Newman, #14-Stewart, #42-Larson, #51-Allgaier, #10-Patrick, and #3-Dillon.
After starting an hour late, there were 3 red flags during the race - all for rain. The first was on lap 23 and lastest 3 hours and 58 minutes, the second was 13 minutes long on lap 273 and the final one was just before the green-white-checker restart.
Harvick, Logano, and Truex, Jr all came into the race with top-10 finishes in every race this season, but all three rain into trouble during the race. Harvick finished 39th, Logano 40th, and Truex, Jr 29th.
#11-Denny Hamlin started suffering neck spasms early in the race and was replaced by Erik Jones when the race restarted after the first red flag. Jones finished 26th.
Harvick continues to hold the Chase points lead. He and Johnson each have 2 wins on the season but Harvick has 314 points to Johnson's 258.
There were 21 lead changes among 6 drivers. There were 11 cautions for 117 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 74.997mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
(4-19-2015)

Race Fast Facts - Bristol Motor Speedway:
Matt Kenseth won the 55th Annual Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes, his 32nd victory in 552 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races.
This is his first victory and fourth top-10 finish in 2015.
This is his fourth victory and 20th top-10 finish in 31 races at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Jimmie Johnson (second) posted his 15th top-10 finish in 27 races at Bristol Motor Speedway. It is his fifth top-10 finish in 2015.
Jeff Gordon (third) posted his 25th top-10 finish in 45 races at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Brett Moffitt (17th) was the highest finishing rookie.
Kevin Harvick leads the point standings by 30 points over Joey Logano.
(NASCAR Integrated Sports Marketing)(4-19-2015)

2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Chase Standings:
[after Bristol, race 8 of 36]
(by wins, then by points)
1) #4-Kevin Harvick [2 wins], 314
2) #48-Jimmie Johnson [2 wins], 258, -56
3) #22-Joey Logano [1 win], 284, -30
4) #2-Brad Keselowski [1 win], 255, -59
5) #11-Denny Hamlin [1 win], 223, -91
6) #20-Matt Kenseth [1 win], 263, -78
7) #78-Truex Jr., 281, -33
8) #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., 241, -73
9) #5-Kasey Kahne, 237, -77
10) #24-Jeff Gordon, 227, -87
11) #43-Aric Almirola, 226, -88
12) #1-Jamie McMurray, 223, -91
13) #10-Danica Patrick, 211, -103
14) #27-Paul Menard, 210, -104
15) #19-Carl Edwards, 203, -111
16) #31-Ryan Newman, 201, -113
(ties are broken by wins, 2nds, 3rds, etc)
See the Unofficial Drivers Points Standings page (pdf) and Unofficial Owners Points Standings page (pdf).(4-19-2015)

Bristol driver introduction songs: Bristol Motor Speedway secured its status long ago as one of the tracks with the most unique driver introductions, allowing the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series premiere stars to choose their introductory song. The 2015 driver introductions for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes were no different. The full list of songs from today's driver introductions for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes.:

Kenseth not considering retirement: #20-Matt Kenseth is just a year younger than #24-Jeff Gordon, who has already said he'll retire at the end of this season. The 43-year-old former champion won't use Gordon's exit as a reason to consider his own future in NASCAR. He's got no plans to get out of the race car anytime soon and hopes his pole-winning run at Bristol Motor Speedway will lead to the end of a 51-race winless streak. Asked if Gordon's decision has led him to ponder retirement, Kenseth said he hasn't given the subject any thought. "I feel as good as I did 10 years ago, and I'd like to say that I do as good or better job behind the wheel than I did then," said Kenseth, who starts first Sunday. "Jeff got to that point where he knew that it was time to go do something else, and it doesn't seem like he has any doubts about that. The fortunate few who can keep jobs and keep running, and don't just fade out because they can't get a competitive job anymore, can decide when that happens. I hope I'm fortunate enough to be one of those guys."(Associated Press)(4-19-2015)

McDowell's sponsor makes donation in honor of Steve Byrnes: The NASCAR community often has a way of coming together in times of need unlike any other sport out there. That is evident this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway where the track, teams and drivers alike are honoring FOX Sports' own Steve Byrnes. However, Thrivent Financial, sponsor on Michael McDowell's #95 Levine Family Racing Ford has taken their support of Byrnes to the next level. Inspired by the powerful NASCAR community, Thrivent Financial will donate $9,500 to Stand Up To Cancer in honor of Byrnes. Greg Stacey, director of content marketing for Thrivent Financial, said the organization is proud to be part of the NASCAR community during times like this and hopes the donation will bring both awareness and help to all of those impacted by cancer. For McDowell, it is special to have a sponsor that is willing to go above and beyond to help out a member of the NASCAR community.(FoxSports)(4-19-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Sunday - race:
ˇ There have been 108 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Bristol Motor Speedway since the first race in 1961, two races each season.
ˇ All races have been scheduled for 500 laps, except for both races in 1976 and the second in 1977, which were 400 laps.
ˇ Junior Johnson leads the series in car owner wins at Bristol with 16; Roger Penske and Jack Roush are tied among active car owners for the most wins at Bristol with 11 each.
ˇ Eight different manufacturers have won in the NSCS at Bristol; led by Chevrolet with 43 victories; followed by Ford with 35. Toyota is ranked fifth among manufacturers with six wins at Bristol.
ˇ 35 of the 108 (32.4%) races at Bristol have been won from the front row: Pole position (22 wins); second-place (13 wins).
ˇ 86 of the 108 (79.6%) races have been won from a top-10 starting position; including 53 from the first four spots.
ˇ Five of the 108 (4.6%) races have been won from a starting position outside the top 20; most recent was Dale Earnhardt Jr. in 2004 - he started 30th.
ˇ The deepest in the field that a race winner has started is 38th, by Elliott Sadler; in 2001.
ˇ Eight of the last 10 races have ended with a Margin of Victory of less than a second at BMS.
ˇ There has been four green-white-checkered finishes at Bristol - all four were the spring race: 2007 (500/504); 2008 (500/506); 2009 (500/503); 2014 (500/503).
ˇ Two of the 107 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Bristol Motor Speedway have been shortened due to weather conditions; the most recent was the event on 3/31/1996.
ˇ Since the advent of electronic scoring the closest margin of victory in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Bristol was the 3/25/2007 race won by Kyle Busch with a MOV of 0.064 second.
(NASCAR)(4-19-2015)

Mark Thompson in the #13 at Talladega: MBM #13 to announced Mark Thompson of Cartersville Ga. Will be piloting the #13 Dodge at Talladega Superspeedway on May 2nd. Thompson is a highly accomplished pilot and operates Phoenix Air, a company that holds US Defense Department contracts to provide tactical electronic warefare training services to Air Force, Air National Guard, & US Navy. Phoenix Air also offers executive jet service as well as having "the" medical jet WHO (World Health Organization) contracts to transport Ebola and other patients all over the world for treatment. Thompson has been racing for years and is a current competitor in ARCA. He started on the pole in Daytona this February and will be driving the same Kenny Schrader Team car at Talladega this May in a Double duty weekend. Phoenix Air will take primary sponsor locations. Grafoid, Braille Battery, and Workwear usa will all be in an associate location.(MBM)(4-19-2015)

Johanna Long, Affarano Motorsports to make first attempt of 2015 at Richmond: Affarano Motorsports announced that Johanna Long would be getting her first career start of NASCAR's Xfinity Series 2015 season at the ToyotaCare 250 race at Richmond International Raceway taking place on Friday, April 24th driving the unsponsored #03 Chevy Camaro of Affarano Motorsports. "When I first approached Johanna, about driving for us, we sat down and discussed what tracks we felt she could best perform at and Richmond was one of the ones at the top of the list." Team and car owner Mike Affarano stated in our telephone interview. "In an ideal situation, Johanna would've opened the season in Daytona this year and we'd be running for points; however, we were unable to secure the sponsorship that we needed to accomplish that, so we've been forced to be more selective of which races to compete in." When pressed about the direction of sponsorship and the expected competitiveness for Johanna Long in an unsponsored car, Mr. Affarano was quite frank. "We are actively seeking full or partial sponsorship for the remainder of this year and beyond. I won't lie, we need it if we want to continue to compete and perform at our best. We felt that it was really important to get Johanna at track that she is familiar and comfortable with and can provide a good showing at; hopefully [being at the track] will help us find that sponsor."(Affarano Motorsports PR)(4-19-2015)

Jerrod Niemann to perform concert before Dover race: Country music sensation Jerrod Niemann will hold a free concert in Victory Plaza before the Sunday, May 31 "FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks" NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Dover International Speedway. This concert is open to all fans. Niemann is best known for his 2013 platinum-certified No. 1 smash hit "Drink to That All Night" off his most recent album, "High Noon." Pop star Pitbull was also featured on an official remix of the song. His other standout tracks include the 2010 No. 1 platinum digital single "Lover, Lover," as well as the Top-5 Gold digital single "What You Want," both appearing on his label debut, "Judge Jerrod & The Hung Jury." This album was named No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums debut chart, making it the only major label country debut to enter at No. 1 in 2010. It was also named one of the Top 10 Albums of 2010 by the New York Times. His 2012 sophomore record, titled "Free the Music," featured the Top 15 single "Shinin' On Me." Niemann has toured with the likes of Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert and Keith Urban during his young career, and has also received award nominations from the CMA, CMT and the American Country Awards.(Dover Speedway)(4-19-2015)

Link-Belt Mid-Atlantic sponsoring Cassill: Hillman Racing announced that Link-Belt Mid-Atlantic, a division of Link-Belt Construction Co. - a manufacturer of telescopic and lattice boom cranes for over 135 years - will sponsor Landon Cassill and the #40 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series entry at Bristol Motor Speedway in tomorrow afternoon's Food City 500. Founded in 1992 with its home office in Ashland, Virginia, Link-Belt Mid-Atlantic also has a branch location in Chesapeake, Virginia, and serves the states of Virginia, Maryland and Delaware. Link-Belt Construction Equipment Company is a leader in the design and manufacture of telescopic boom and lattice boom cranes for the construction industry worldwide.(Hillman Racing)(4-18-2015)

Final practice for the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway is over after 55 scheduled minutes, the top five, slowest two and some notes:
#41-Busch 127.554
#5-Kahne 126.537
#18-Ragan 126.503
#24-Gordon 126.420
#2-Keselowski 126.378
Most laps run: #46-Annett 126, #88-Earnhardt, Jr. 109
slowest: #23-Yeley 122.733 & #33-Kennedy 121.305
See fastest speeds, laps run, best 10 Consecutive Lap Average on the Bristol practice 3 speeds page (pdf).(4-18-2015)

RCR to make final appeal on #31 penalty UPDATE: Richard Childress Racing will make one final appeal of NASCAR penalties issued to Ryan Newman's team for tampering with tires in the Sprint Cup Series race March 22 at Auto Club Speedway. A three-member NASCAR-appointed appeals board reduced the points penalty and fine Thursday but left the six-race suspensions to crew chief Luke Lambert, engineer Philip Surgen and tire specialist James Bender. NASCAR announced Friday night that RCR had appealed that decision to NASCAR's final appeals officer, former Gulfstream executive Bryan Moss. Moss has not set a date to hear the case and has deferred the suspensions, allowing Lambert, Surgen and Bender to return to the racetrack Saturday after missing Friday practice and qualifying at Bristol Motor Speedway. The appeal doesn't come without some risk to RCR since Moss could reinstate the original penalties. The procedure for a final appeal is much like the initial appeal except Moss has access to all materials and a transcript of the first hearing. The burden of proof also switches from NASCAR to the team to prove that it either did not commit the act or that the penalty is too severe.(ESPN.com)(4-18-2015)
UPDATE: Richard Childress Racing has requested an appeal to the Final Appeals Officer in regard to the P5 penalty upheld by the National Motorsports Appeals Panel earlier this week. The suspensions of crew chief Luke Lambert, tire technician James Bender and race engineer Philip Surgen have been lifted until Final Appeals Officer Bryan Moss has made a final ruling on the penalties. RCR tapped the team's current XFINITY Series competition director Todd Parrott as the substitute crew chief on the #31 team starting with this weekend's race. But with the case now going to the Final Appeals Officer, Lambert and the other suspended crew members returned to work at Bristol Motor Speedway Saturday morning. The time and date of the final appeal has yet to be determined. (FoxSports)(4-18-2015)

First Saturday practice for the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway is over after 55 minutes, the top five, slowest two and some notes:
#5-Kahne 126.829
#4-Harvick 126.395
#22-Logano 126.137
#41-Busch 126.088
#11-Hamlin 125.996
Most laps run: #1-McMurray 106, #48-Johnson 88
slowest: #23-Yeley 122.693 & #33-Kennedy 122.217.
notes: #14-Stewart slid up into the wall early in the session, suffering rear end damage. The team will repair the car. #17-Stenhouse, Jr got into the back of #19-Edwards, but only minor damage for each. #48-Johnson made contact with the wall. The team will fix the car. Also, slight damage to #98-Wise after hitting the outside wall.
See fastest speeds, laps run, best 10 Consecutive Lap Average on the Bristol practice 2 speeds page (pdf).(4-18-2015)

Spring Goodyear testing underway: With the warming temperatures around the country, the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company embarks on one of its rites of spring - testing season. The busy schedule started with a test two weeks ago -- April 7 -- at Richmond International Raceway with drivers A.J. Allmendinger, Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski and Tony Stewart. Coming out of that session, Goodyear confirmed a set-up that included the same left-side tire as last fall with a new multi-zone-tread right-side tire. NASCAR's official tire supplier followed that up this week - April 13-14 - with a test at Kentucky Speedway. Drivers participating in that test were Greg Biffle, Jamie McMurray, Brett Moffitt and Ryan Newman.
"The main objective of the Kentucky test was to bring the right-side tire there in line with several of the other high-speed mile-and-a-half speedways. What we tested incorporated a different mold shape and construction from what we raced there in the past," said Greg Stucker, Goodyear's director of racing. "Additionally, with the lower downforce of the 2015 rules package, we felt a left-side compound adjustment to increase grip was justified. Both those goals were met, and all drivers involved in the test felt like the new combination was a nice improvement over the package raced in 2014 and prior."
Next up on the calendar is a trip to the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway on April 27-28. The organizations scheduled to take part are BK Racing, Furniture Row Racing, Hendrick Motorsports and Richard Petty Motorsports.
"The ground track surface at Indy makes it very sensitive to tire set-up," said Stucker. "The focus of the Indy test will be to make sure we have the correct tire combination to match the new characteristics of the low downforce, low horsepower 2015 rules package. The surface of the track is very abrasive, so getting the correct compounds and constructions to generate the desired wear characteristics, while maintaining the level of grip for competitive racing, is critical."
This season has brought a host of changes to the Sprint Cup set-up, and Goodyear has reacted to that with changes to race recommendations for three of the first eight points races. "To date, we're happy with the way the 2015 season has gone," said Stucker. "We feel like those adjustments we have made to tire recommendations from 2014 have been nice improvements, adding back some of the grip in a mechanical fashion to compensate for some of the grip lost through the aerodynamic downforce reduction. That will continue to be our focus in 2015 testing."
Upcoming Goodyear test sessions include Iowa Speedway on May 5 (Xfinity Series only), Dover International Speedway on May 11-12 and Darlington Raceway on June 9-10.(Goodyear Racing)(4-18-2015)

Fans, NASCAR to honor Steve Brynes at Bristol: Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race from Bristol Motor Speedway -- the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer -- is including race teams, NASCAR officials and race fans in a heartfelt gesture to support one of the sport's most popular broadcasters and all of those battling cancer. As race fans enter Bristol Motor Speedway Sunday morning, they have the opportunity to receive a Stand Up To Cancer placard, writing in the name of someone they are supporting in their battle against the deadly disease. Race team crews and NASCAR officials have placards specifically honoring Byrnes. There are two opportunities to display the placards during the race airing live on FOX on Sunday, April 19 -- during parade laps, when crews are asked to stand atop the pit wall with their salutes, and again on lap 250 of the 500-lap race, when fans are asked to Stand Up To Cancer with their placards. In addition, NASCAR is offering race teams the option to carry a special car decal with Byrnes' initials, honoring him with placement on the B-post or C-post of any Sprint Cup, SFINITY, or K&N Series entry. Byrnes' brother, Dan Byrnes, and his family (wife Tammy; Steve's nephews Tyler and Dylan; and niece Samantha) are attending Sunday's race on behalf of Steve Byrnes and his family. Byrnes has been battling courageously against head and neck cancer. He is the co-host of NASCAR Race Hub and the play-by-play announcer for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.(Fox Sports)(4-18-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Saturday - drivers:
ˇ 432 drivers have competed in at least one NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol; 302 in more than one.
ˇ NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty leads the series in starts at Bristol with 60. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with 44 starts.
ˇ 42 different drivers have won at Bristol, led by Darrell Waltrip (12). Kurt Busch, Jeff Gordon and Kyle Busch each have five wins, the most among active drivers.
ˇ 12 drivers have won consecutive races at Bristol led by Darrell Waltrip with seven consecutive victories from 1981-1984. The other 11 are Fred Lorenzen (1963-1964 sweep), David Pearson (1968 sweep), Bobby Allison (1972 sweep), Cale Yarborough did it twice (1974 sweep and four straight from 1976-1977), Richard Petty (1975 sweep), Dale Earnhardt also did twice (1985 sweep and 1987 sweep), Alan Kulwicki (1992 sweep), Rusty Wallace (2000 sweep), Kurt Busch (2003 sweep and 2004 spring race), Kyle Busch (2009 sweep), and Brad Keselowski (2011 fall-2012 spring).
ˇ Richard Petty leads the series in runner-up finishes at Bristol with 10; Kevin Harvick leads all active drivers with four.
ˇ Darrell Waltrip and Richard Petty lead the series in top-five finishes at Bristol with 26 each. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with 16; followed by Matt Kenseth (12) and Kevin Harvick (nine).
ˇ Richard Petty has 37 top-10 finishes at Bristol, more than any other driver. Jeff Gordon leads the series among active drivers in top-10 finishes with 24; followed by Matt Kenseth (19) and Kurt Busch (15).
ˇ Greg Biffle leads the series (active drivers) in average finishing position at Bristol with an 11.917.
ˇ Kurt Busch posted his first series career win at Bristol (2002), and Joey Logano won his first pole at Bristol (2010).
ˇ Ryan Newman leads the series (active drivers) with the most NASCAR Sprint Cup Series starts at Bristol without visiting Victory Lane at 26.
ˇ Two female drivers have made NASCAR Sprint Cup Series starts at Bristol: Janet Guthrie and Danica Patrick.
(NASCAR)(4-18-2015)

Suarez gets best finish by a Mexican driver: #18-Daniel Suarez posted the best finish for a Mexican driver in Xfinity Series history as he finished second Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway. While he couldn't catch Team Penske driver Joey Logano, who led all 300 laps to win the Drive To Stop Diabetes 300, Suarez methodically worked his way from starting ninth to the runner-up spot. "At one point, I thought I had a shot for the win," said the 22-year-old Suarez, a Monterrey native. "In the middle of the run, I was a little bit faster but in the very long run, I was a little bit too tight. We have to keep learning, keep working. For now, I'm very happy with the performance in today's race." The previous highest finish by a Mexican-born driver was seventh by Jorge Goeters in the 2007 race at Mexico City.(ESPN.com)(4-18-2015)

Joey Logano wins XFINITY race at Bristol: #22-Joey Logano won the Drive to Stop Diabetes 300 at Bristol Speedway. He dominated the race, leading every one of the 300 laps. #18-Daniel Suarez finished second, followed by #60-Chris Buescher, #20-Erik Jones, #3-Ty Dillon, #9-Chase Elliott, #8-Kevin Harvick, #2-Brian Scott, #62-Brendan Gaughan, and #1-Elliott Sadler.
There were 8 cautions for 48 laps and only 1 lead change (Logano passed pole sitter Jones on the first lap). Complete results are on the Bristol race results page (pdf).
(4-18-2015)

Bristol XFINITY Race Fast Facts:
Joey Logano(i) won the 33rd Annual Drive To Stop Diabetes 300, his 23rd victory in 138 NASCAR XFINITY Series races.
This is his second victory and third top-10 finish in 2015.
This is his second victory and seventh top-10 finish in nine races at Bristol Motor Speedway.
He led all 300 laps - a Bristol Motor Speedway NASCAR XFINITY Series race record.
It was also an XFINITY Series record for most laps led in a race.
Logano's win was the second straight victory for the No. 22 Ford at Bristol Motor Speedway (Ryan Blaney, 8/22/14).
Daniel Suarez posted a second-place finish in his first Bristol Motor Speedway start. It is his best career finish and second top-10 finish in 2015.
Suarez was the highest-finishing rookie.
Chris Buescher and Ty Dillon are tied for the points standings lead.
(NASCAR Integrated Marketing)(4-18-2015)

XFINITY Driver standings following Bristol:
1) #60-Chris Buescher, 258
2) #3-Ty Dillon, 258
3) #9-Chase Elliott, 246, -12
4) #6-Darrell Wallace Jr. #, 236, -22
5) #16-Ryan Reed, 220, -38
6) #1-Elliott Sadler, 215, -43
7) #62-Brendan Gaughan, 211, -47
8) #7-Regan Smith, 211, -47
9) #2-Brian Scott, 205, -53
10) #18-Daniel Suarez #, 202, -56
See complete owner and driver standings on the driver standings(pdf) and owner standings page (pdf).(4-18-2015)

Erik Jones on XFINITY pole at Bristol: #20-Erik Jones won the pole for the Drive to Stop Diabetes 300 at Bristol Speedway with a speed of 125.158mph. It is his 3rd pole in a row. #22-Joey Logano will start second. The rest of the top 10: #33-Austin Dillon, #2-Brian Scott, #54-Denny Hamlin, #88-Kevin Harvick, #6-Darrell Wallace, Jr., #62-Brendan Gaughan, #18-Daniel Suarez, and #7-Regan Smith. Did Not Qualify: None. The starting lineup is posted on the Bristol starting lineup page (pdf).(4-18-2015)

Removal of Sprint Tower at Daytona completed: On Friday afternoon, Daytona International Speedway reached another crucial milestone as part of its $400 million DAYTONA Rising project. The final piece of the iconic Sprint Tower was removed by a 490-foot Manitowoc 2250 Crawler Crane. During the last several weeks, the crane disassembled the tower by removing 30 large individual sections (representing 1,000 gross tons of steel).(DIS)(4-18-2015)

Bowyer, Blaney & Hall of Famer Wallace join Talladega pre-race Q&A: A former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winner at Talladega Superspeedway, a young, promising rookie driver for a legendary team, and a legendary Hall of Famer are scheduled to be a part of the track's Pre-Race Fan Question & Answer session at the Start/Finish Line on Sunday, May 3, prior to the start of the GEICO 500. Hear first-hand how Clint Bowyer, who has two triumphs at the 2.66-mile track, and Ryan Blaney, who pilots the iconic #21 for the famed Wood Brothers, plan to tackle the biggest and baddest race track on the planet. Plus, NASCAR Hall of Famer and International Motorsports Hall of Fame member, Rusty Wallace, will give his thoughts on who he thinks will win the GEICO 500. Fans who want to crank up their race day experience have the opportunity to be a part of the Fan Q&A session, which will be hosted by a Motor Racing Network (MRN) personality. The pre-race experience is available to all fans with the purchase of Talladega Superspeedway's "Pit Pass Upgrade." The "Pit Pass Upgrade," which can be purchased for $75, grants access to the special Q&A session, which is tentatively scheduled from 8:45-9:45am/ct. It also gives fans the unique ability to get up close and personal with NASCAR's warriors as they take in all the festivities at the Pre-Race stage, including Driver Introductions for the GEICO 500, which will include an array of special guests and VIPs, as well as the Honorary Starter and Grand Marshal for the event. The Pit Pass Upgrade goes into effect on Sunday from 8:00am until the conclusion of Driver Introductions.(TSS)(4-18-2015)

RCR to make final appeal on #31 penalty: Richard Childress Racing will make one final appeal of NASCAR penalties issued to Ryan Newman's team for tampering with tires in the Sprint Cup Series race March 22 at Auto Club Speedway. A three-member NASCAR-appointed appeals board reduced the points penalty and fine Thursday but left the six-race suspensions to crew chief Luke Lambert, engineer Philip Surgen and tire specialist James Bender. NASCAR announced Friday night that RCR had appealed that decision to NASCAR's final appeals officer, former Gulfstream executive Bryan Moss. Moss has not set a date to hear the case and has deferred the suspensions, allowing Lambert, Surgen and Bender to return to the racetrack Saturday after missing Friday practice and qualifying at Bristol Motor Speedway. The appeal doesn't come without some risk to RCR since Moss could reinstate the original penalties. The procedure for a final appeal is much like the initial appeal except Moss has access to all materials and a transcript of the first hearing. The burden of proof also switches from NASCAR to the team to prove that it either did not commit the act or that the penalty is too severe.(ESPN.com)(4-18-2015)

Pit Stall Selections: The selections of pit stalls for the Food City 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway have been made.
Pole sitter #20-Kenseth chose pit stall 1 [as do most pole sitters].
Outside pole sitter #2-Keselowski took pit stall 23, the last pit stall on the backstretch.
#19-Edwards, who starts 3rd took the 22nd pit stall, the last pit stall on the frontstretch.
The 43rd pit stall, the first on the backstretch, was taken by #4-Harvick.
To see where the drivers/teams pit stall is, see the pit selection chart on the Pit Stall Selection chart.(4-17-2015)

Kenseth wins Bristol pole: #20-Matt Kenseth won the Coors Light pole for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway with speed of 128.632mph for his 1st pole of 2015, 2nd at Bristol and 14th of his career.
#2-Keselowski is on the outside pole followed by #19-Edwards, #4-Harvick, #11-Hamlin, #22-Logano, #41-Busch, #5-Kahne, #27-Menard, #1-McMurray, #18-Ragan, and #3-Dillon.
Missing the race were: #62-Gaughan, #30-Hornaday.
See the starting lineup, round-by-round qualifying results and more on Jayski.com's Bristol Qualifying Page.(4-17-2015)

Qualifying Fast Facts - Bristol:
Matt Kenseth won the Coors Light Pole Award for the 55th Annual Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes with a lap of 14.917 seconds, 128.632 mph.
This is his 14th pole in 552 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races.
This is his first pole and fifth top-10 start in 2015.
This is his second pole in 31 races at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Brad Keselowski (second) posted his fourth top-10 start of 2015 and his seventh in 11 races at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Carl Edwards (third) posted his 12th top-10 start at Bristol Motor Speedway. It is his fourth in eight races this season.
Brett Moffitt (24th) was the fastest qualifying rookie.
(NASCAR Statistics)(4-17-2015)

Second Round of Qualifying for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway is over after 10 scheduled minutes.
#22-Logano 128.451
#20-Kenseth 128.322
#4-Harvick 128.108
#41-Busch 127.988
#2-Keselowski 127.869
the rest of the top 12: 19 27 5 11 3 1 18;
out of the top 12 and not advancing to round 3: 88 42 51 78 40 31 95 47 14 83 24 55.
(4-17-2015)

First Round of Qualifying for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway is over, after 20 scheduled minutes.
#22-Logano 129.290
#18-Ragan 128.623
#2-Keselowski 128.554
#20-Kenseth 128.537
#5-Kahne 128.451
the rest of the top 24: 3 24 4 19 88 55 51 27 14 31 83 11 42 47 41 95 40 78 1;
out of the top 24 and not advancing to round 2: 17 10 13 48 23 43 6 38 16 26 98 46 15 34 9 7 32 35 62 30 33
Drivers who will miss the race: #62-Gaughan, #30-Hornaday.
(4-17-2015)

Friday practice for the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway is over after 85 scheduled minutes, the top five, slowest two and some notes:
#5-Kahne 128.168
#88-Earnhardt, Jr 128.159
#2-Keselowski 127.971
#19-Edwards 127.554
#18-Ragan 127.546
Most laps run: #14-Stewart 65, #46-Annett 60
slowest: #33-Kennedy 123.650 & #62-Gaughan 122.835
notes: Qualifying is scheduled for 4:45pm/et this afternoon.
See fastest speeds, laps run, best 10 Consecutive Lap Average on the Bristol practice 1 speeds page (pdf).(4-17-2015)

Qualifying Order for the Food City 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway is posted. 45 cars/drivers are listed.
The first of the drivers scheduled to go out is #38-Gilliland.
The final driver scheduled to go out is #13-Mears.
Qualifying order is set by a random draw, held about an hour before the first practice.
See the full qualifying order on Jayski.com's Bristol Qualifying Page.(4-17-2015)

Sorenson to drive the #34 at Richmond: Front Row Motorsports tweeted Friday morning that Reed Sorenson will drive the #34 Ford next weekend at Richmond. Sorenson started the year with the #29 team of RAB Racing. He finished 32nd at Daytona. The team did not qualify at Atlanta, Las Vegas, or Fontana, with drew from Phoenix, and have not attempted a race since.(4-17-2019)

Harvick to be honored at the White House: Reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick and his #4 Stewart-Haas Racing team will be honored by President Obama at the White House on Tuesday, April 21. The visit will continue the president's tradition of honoring athletes and sports teams for their efforts to give back to their communities. The event will be held at 2:45pm/et and will be streamed live by the White House website. Harvick most recently visited the White House in 2012 when President Obama welcomed the participants in the 2011 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup.(4-17-2015)

Skuttle Tight, CSX join Ragan for Hamlin Showdown: David Ragan will be among the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series stars racing for a cause at the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown April 23 at South Boston Speedway. Skuttle Tight and CSX will be on Ragan's #77 Ford as primary sponsors, and Farmer Machine Company will be represented as an associate partner. The 200-lap, annual Late Model event at the 0.4-mile oval serves as a fundraiser for the Denny Hamlin Foundation, which raises awareness and funds for the specific needs of children with Cystic Fibrosis. Skuttle Tight is a Willmar, Minn.-based manufacturer that offers insulated attic-entry systems that replace older attic hatches and access panels that can cause drafts. CSX, a transportation company with 21,000 miles of railroad tracks in 23 states, has partnered with Ragan for three race seasons to promote its safety campaign to "Play It Safe" around railroad tracks. Farmer Machine is a Virginia-based heavy fabrication company and a supplier for CSX. Ragan has participated in the Showdown for three consecutive years, finishing as high as second in 2013.(Breaking Limits)(4-17-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Friday - poles:
ˇ Fred Lorenzen won the inaugural Coors Light pole with a speed of 79.225 mph.
ˇ 47 different drivers have poles at Bristol, led by Mark Martin and Cale Yarborough with nine each. Jeff Gordon leads all active drivers with five.
ˇ The race winner has started from the pole 22 times, the most productive starting position. The last driver to win from the pole was Carl Edwards, in the night race of 2008.
ˇ Four drivers have won from the pole position multiple times: Bobby Allison (1972 twice), Cale Yarborough (1973, 1977 twice, 1980), Darrell Waltrip (1981 twice, 1982) and Rusty Wallace (1991, 1993, 1999, 2000).
ˇ 10 different drivers have posted consecutive poles at Bristol Motor Speedway; Mark Martin is the only of the 10 to win four consecutive poles at Bristol: Fireball Roberts (swept 1962), Fred Lorenzen (swept 1963), Richard Petty (1967-'68), Bobby Allison (swept 1972), Cale Yarborough (swept 1973; swept 1977; swept 1980), Darrell Waltrip (swept 1981), Geoff Bodine (swept 1986), Mark Martin (swept 1995-1996- all four races; and swept 2009); Rusty Wallace (swept 1998), Jeff Gordon (swept 2002) and Denny Hamlin (fall 2013, spring 2014).
ˇ Jeff Gordon leads (active drivers) the series in average starting position at Bristol with a 7.318.
ˇ Qualifying has been cancelled due to weather conditions in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Bristol Motor Speedway three times; most recently August 25, 2012.
(NASCAR)(4-17-2015)

Sad News - Poncho Myers: Richard "Bob" "Poncho" Myers, 65, of Highland Ter., Titusville, FL, died Thursday, April 16, 2015, at his home. Myers was born February 22, 1950, in Winston Salem, NC to NASCAR pioneer Bobby Harris Myers and Laura Lorene Younts. For over 30 years, Myers worked for Boeing/ULA. Surviving are his wife Judy Johnson Myers of the home; daughter Tracy Myers of Daytona; son Robert Myers of the home; grandchildren Hannah Myers and Jordan Snowden of Daytona; Brother Danny "Chocolate" Myers (RCR) and his wife Caron of Lexington, NC; brother-in-law James Johnson and Raymond Johnson of Titusville; sisters-in-law Beverly and her husband Charles, and Lisa Johnson of Titusville; Nieces Chrissy Johnson and Stacy Johnson of Titusville and Alexi Myers of Lexington, NC; and his beloved dog Sugar. Myers loved fishing, racing-especially the Richard Childress racing teams-his family and his church.(northbrevardfuneralhome.com)(4-17-2015)

Austin Dillon fastest in XFINITY happy hour: #33-Austin Dillon was quickest during happy hour for the Drive to Stop Diabetes 300 with a speed of 124.412mph. He was followed by: #54-Denny Hamlin, #18-Daniel Suarez, #60-Chris Buescher, #2-Brian Scott, #20-Erik Jones, #3-Ty Dillon, #62-Brendan Gaughan, #9-Chase Elliott, and #22-Joey Logano, and #88-Kevin Harvick. 39 drivers participated in the session. See complete results on the Bristol practice 2 speeds page (pdf).(4-17-2015)

Hamlin fastest in first XFINITY practice: #54-Denny Hamlin was fastest during opening practice at Bristol Speedway with a speed of 122.100mph. #2-Brian Scott was second, followed by: #22-Joey Logano, #20-Erik Jones, #33-Austin Dillon, #88-Kevin Harvick, #62-Brendan Gaughan, #7-Regan Smith, #60-Chris Buescher, and #18-Daniel Suarez. 39 drivers practiced during the session. See complete results on the Bristol practice 1 speeds page (pdf).(4-17-2015)

MAKE celebrates new North Carolina recognition: MAKE Motorsports is a proud supporter of North Carolina House Bill 140. This bill named April 18th as Linemen Appreciation Day in the State of North Carolina. MAKE has been a true supporter of linemen and their work as first responders. In 2014, MAKE sported the Drivin' for Linemen campaign. They also were the first team to sponsor a race with the Drivin' for Linemen 200 at Gateway Raceway. MAKE Motorsports wants to thank Representatives Hastings, Bradford, Pendleton, and Farmer-Butterfield for sponsoring this bill. MAKE also would like to thank NC House Speaker Tim Moore for all of his help. The #50 and #1 Chevrolet Silverados are sponsored in part by Elite Holdings and Life On the Line Movie.(MAKE Motorsports)(4-17-2015)

Chevy returns at official vehicle and pace car at Bristol: Chevrolet, with more than a century of motorsports success, reunites with Bristol Motor Speedway in a multiyear deal as the official vehicle and pace car of the iconic short track. Beginning with this weekend's first race, Drive to Stop Diabetes 300, a red Chevrolet Camaro 1LE pace car will lead the field of 40 NASCAR XFINITY Series drivers down to the green flag. The Camaro will be the front-runner throughout the 160-mile contest as drivers duke it out at the World's Fastest Half-Mile. For the first time since 2008, a Chevrolet will serve as the pace car of the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes and Stand Up To Cancer. A sleek white Chevrolet SS will lead the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars to the start of the race and pace the field throughout the battle of the high banks. The Chevrolet pace car for the Food City 500 will be adorned with Steve Byrnes' name above the driver and passenger doors.(BMS)(4-17-2015)

M&M's Crispy to sponsor pole day at Richmond: It's been said that the taste of a NASCAR victory is sweet. But, why should drivers have to wait until after the checkered flag to get a sample? Well, Richmond International Raceway and M&M's Brand are here to satisfy that craving before the green flag waves. M&M'sŽ Brand and RIR are proud to bring fans M&M's Crispy Pole Qualifying at RIR on Friday, April 24th. The field for TOYOTA OWNERS 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Saturday night, April 25th will be set on Friday when drivers participate in three rounds of knockout qualifying. After a decade of phone calls, petitions, Facebook posts and countless other pleas, Mars Chocolate North America brought M&M'S Crispy back nationwide in January following a 10-year hiatus.(M&M Mars)(4-17-2015)

Earnhardt Jr., Logano to participate in Dover vs. Pocono celebrity softball game: As part of their annual Team Dover vs. Team Pocono Celebrity Softball Game, Dover International Speedway and Pocono Raceway will go head-to-head for the third time Tuesday, April 21, 2015 at ARM & HAMMER Park in Trenton, N.J. This event will feature the two most recent winners of the Daytona 500, Dale Earnhardt Jr. (2014) and Joey Logano (2015), along with Todd Bodine, two-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Champion and current Fox Sports 1 analyst. The rosters from each team will be rounded out with members of national and local motorsports media, as well as other local media personalities, Miss Coors Light Amanda Mertz, and a few other special guests. The softball series between the two tracks is currently tied at one game apiece. Pocono came from behind to win the inaugural game in 2012 and Dover evened the score with a walk-off victory two years ago. Access to the celebrity softball game is free with a ticket to the April 21 matchup between the Thunder and the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Individual tickets for the Trenton Thunder's baseball game start at just $11 and are currently on sale. All children ages 12 and younger will receive a voucher for a free hot dog, drink and bag of pretzels upon entrance. Additionally, it will be "1-Dollar Dog Night" for all fans, courtesy of Black Bear Franks. For tickets to this special event, please call 1-609-394-3300 or visit www.TrentonThunder.com. Gates for the softball game will open at 4 p.m. with the event beginning at 4:30 p.m. Following the softball game, time permitting, Earnhardt and Logano will throw out the first pitch for that evening's 7 p.m. baseball game versus the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.(Pocono/Dover PR)(4-17-2015)

#31 team appeal to be heard April 16 UPDATE 2: David Higdon, Vice President, Integrated Marketing Communications for NASCAR tweeted Tuesday afternoon that the "National Motorsports Appeals Panel will hear RCR appeal of #31 team P5 penalty on April 16. Fine, suspensions deferred until then."(4-7-2015)
UPDATE: Statement from Richard Childress, "Our appeal is scheduled for Thursday, April 16. We feel confident we have a very compelling case to present to the appeals panel. We strongly believe in the intent of the rules and the integrity of our own teams while following those same rules. Out of respect for the appeal process, we will have no further comments until after the hearing."(RCR)(4-9/16-2015)
#31 RCR Team Appeal heard, points & fine penalties reduced: National Motorsports Appeals Panel Statement: The National Motorsports Appeals Panel today heard and considered the appeal of a P5 penalty issued on March 31, 2015 to Richard Childress (owner), Ryan Newman (driver), Lucas Lambert (crew chief), James Bender (tire technician) and Philip Surgen (race engineer) relative to NASCAR Sprint Cup Series vehicle #31 at Auto Club Speedway. The penalty concerns the following sections in the 2015 NASCAR rule book:
12.1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing
20.16: Wheels and tires
A. Any device, modification, or procedure to the tire or wheel, including the valve stem hardware, that is used to release pressure, beyond normal pressure adjustments, from the tire and/or inner shield, will not be permitted.
20.16.2: Tires
F. Modifications to the tires, by treatment or any other means, will not be permitted.
12.5.3.5.2: Minimum P5 Penalty Options (includes all four points below):
A. Loss of 50 championship driver and owner points, regardless of whether the violation occurred during a Championship race or not
B. $75,000-$125,000 fine
C. Suspension for the next six series Championship Races, plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, for the crew chief and any other team members as determined by NASCAR
D. Probation through the end of the calendar year for all suspended members, or for a six-month period following the issuance of the penalty notice if that period spans across two consecutive seasons
12.5.3.5.3: P5 Level infractions detected during post-race inspection:
If the infraction is detected during post-race inspection, then the following penalty elements will be added to those listed previously in this section:
A. Loss of an additional 25 Championship driver and owner points; regardless of whether it was a Championship Race or not
B. Loss of an additional $50,000
The original penalty assessed included a $125,000 ($75,000 plus $50,000) fine, six-race suspension and probation through Dec. 31 to Lambert; six-race suspension and probation through Dec. 31 to both Bender and Surgen; and the loss of 75 (50 plus 25) championship car owner and 75 (50 plus 25) championship driver points to both Childress and Newman.
Upon hearing the testimony, the decisions of the National Motorsports Appeals Panel are:
1. The Appellants violated the Rule or Rules set forth in the Penalty Notice and it is a P5 level violation.
2. The Panel amends the original Penalty levied by NASCAR because there is no written explanation of what constitutes a post-race inspection. Therefore the Penalty elements added under Section 12.5.3.5.3. are removed and the Penalty adjusted to:
-Loss of 50 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship Car Owner points for Richard Childress.
-Loss of 50 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship Driver points for Ryan Newman.
-$75,000 fine. Suspended for the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship Races, plus any non-Championship Races or Special Events which might occur during that time period. Placed on NASCAR probation through Dec. 31 for crew chief Lucas Lambert.
- Suspended for the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship Races, plus any non-Championship Races or Special Events which might occur during that time period. Placed on NASCAR probation through Dec. 31 for Tire Technician James Bender.
-Suspended for the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship Races, plus any non-Championship Races or Special Events which might occur during that time period. Placed on NASCAR probation through Dec. 31 for Race Engineer Philip Surgen.
The panel consisted of the following three individuals:
Mr. John Capels, Mr. Hunter Nickell, Mr. Dale Pinilis.
The Appellants have the right to appeal the decision of the National Motorsports Appeals Panel to the National Motorsports Final Appeals Officer in accordance with Section 15 of the NASCAR rule book.(NASCAR)(4-16-2015)
POINTS #31-Ryan Newman regains 25 drivers points and moved from 24th in the points standings to 20th. The #31 team regains 25 owners points and moves from 26th in owners points to 22nd.(4-16-2015)
Statement from Richard Childress, Chairman and CEO of RCR: "I'd like to thank the Appeals Panel for taking the time to hear our appeal today. While they decided to reduce the penalties to the minimum penalties for a P5 violation, I am disappointed that the entire penalty was not overturned given the facts we presented. In order for the team to move forward, and focus our efforts on the upcoming races, Luke (Lambert), Phil (Surgen) and James (Bender) will begin serving their suspensions this weekend at Bristol. Veteran crew chief Todd Parrott will fill in as crew chief for this weekend's race. We are still discussing our options and have not yet determined whether to appeal the penalties to the Final Appeals Officer."(RCR)(4-16-2015)

Vydox Plus sponsoring Premier Motorsports at Bristol: Vydox Plus has partnered with Brendan Gaughan and Premium Motorsports for the NSCS Food City 500 support of Steve Byrnes at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 19, 2015. The new "purple pill" can offer the same results as leading Rx pills, but without the side effects and high cost. Also endorsed by PGA tour winner, Brian Gay, former British Open Champion, Mark Calcavecchia and 2013 Senior PGA Charles Schwab Cup Winner, Kenny Perry. Vydox Plus, is available for purchase in pharmacies and online at www.vydoxplus.com.(Premium Motorsports)(4-16-2015)

Texas TV Ratings UPDATE: NASCAR on FOX continues to struggle on Saturday nights. NASCAR Sprint Cup racing from Texas drew a 2.9 overnight rating on FOX Saturday night, down 17% from 2013 (3.5) and down 19% from 2012 (3.6). Last year's Texas race was postponed due to rain, earning a 2.3 overnight in its scheduled Sunday afternoon window. Excluding rainouts, the 2.9 overnight is the lowest ever for a NASCAR Sprint Cup race on FOX (dates back to 2001), falling below the previous mark of 3.0 for coverage from Richmond last year. Nine of the ten lowest rated NASCAR on FOX telecasts in the metered markets have taken place on a Saturday night. The 2.9 is also easily the lowest ever for NASCAR from Texas, again excluding rainouts. The previous low was the 3.5 in 2013. Saturday's record-low overnight continues a recent stall in NASCAR's momentum. After the season's first three races had increases in overnights compared to last year, the past four (including one on Fox Sports 1) have either been flat or declined.(Sports Media Watch via Sports Business Daily)(4-13-2015)
UPDATE: For the first time in 14 years televising NASCAR, FOX slipped under a 3.0 rating for a Sprint Cup race. NASCAR Sprint Cup racing from Texas drew a 2.9 final rating and 4.8 million viewers on FOX Saturday night, down 24% in ratings and 23% in viewership from 2013 (3.8, 6.3M) and down 28% in both measures from 2012 (4.0, 6.8M). Last year's race was postponed due to rain, earning a 2.4 and 3.8 million in its scheduled Sunday afternoon window. Excluding rainouts, the 2.9 rating is easily the lowest ever for a NASCAR Sprint Cup telecast on FOX (dates back to 2001). The previous low was a 3.3 for last year's Richmond race. Of the 18 lowest rated NASCAR telecasts on FOX, 13 have taken place on a Saturday night. Again excluding rainouts, the 2.9 is also the lowest rating in the history of the spring Texas race (dates back to 1997). The previous low was the previously noted 3.8 in 2013. Prior to moving from Sunday to Saturday in 2011, the race had never dipped below a 4.7 rating.(Sports Media Watch)(4-16-2015)

Testing at Kentucky UPDATES: Eight NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers and teams are scheduled to participate in the April 15 open test at Kentucky Speedway ahead of the track's Quaker State 400 in July. The open test will be preceded by a closed Goodyear tire test on April 13 and 14 with one team each from the following organizations: Chip Ganassi Racing, Michael Waltrip Racing, Richard Childress Racing and Roush Fenway Racing. On April 15, #16-Greg Biffle, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #20-Matt Kenseth, #22-Joey Logano, #1-Jamie McMurray, #10-Danica Patrick, #31-Ryan Newman and #9-Sam Hornish Jr. are scheduled to participate in the open test with April 16 serving as a rain date before the Sprint Cup Series heads to Bristol Motor Speedway next weekend.(NASCAR.com)(4-10-2015)
UPDATE: #16-Greg Biffle, #1-Jamie McMurray, #55-Brett Moffitt and #31-Ryan Newman are taking part in a Goodyear tire test Monday and Tuesday at Kentucky Speedway. There will be an open test there Wednesday. Each Sprint Cup organization can have one car test there. This is the second of three Goodyear tire tests this month. Teams were at Richmond International Raceway last week. The month's third tire test is scheduled for April 27-29 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Teams that will have one car at that tire test will be Hendrick Motorsports, Furniture Row Racing, Richard Petty Motorsports and BK Racing.(NBC Sports)
AND Jamie McMurray provided a glimpse of NASCAR's new high tech dashboard during a test at Kentucky Speedway. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver sent out a series of Tweets on Monday while taking part in a Goodyear tire test that gave a couple views of what the new dashboard might look like when it's implemented. The dashboard has the ability to monitor a variety of data including lap times and tire pressure as well as keeping drivers informed on other items during pit stops. NASCAR has stated at some point the information gathered through the new system would be available to fans and offer an interactive way to monitor a car's performance. In fact NASCAR rule book states the a digital dash display "may be used at all Events after August 5, 2015. Digital dash display use will not be permitted before August 5, 1015. Effective January 1, 2016, a digital dash display must be used at all Events."(Motor Racing Network)(4-14-2015)
UPDATE 2: Brad Keselowski was testing with the #22 team of teammate Joey Logano instead of his own #2 squad at Kentucky. Logano was originally scheduled to participate but was unable to attend. Also taking part in the open test were #16-Greg Biffle (Roush Fenway Racing), #31-Ryan Newman (Richard Childress Racing), #1-Jamie McMurray (Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates), #55-Brett Moffitt (Michael Waltrip Racing), #21-Ryan Blaney (Wood Brothers Racing), #20-Matt Kenseth (Joe Gibbs Racing), #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Hendrick Motorsports), #10-Danica Patrick (Stewart-Haas Racing) and #9-Sam Hornish Jr. (Richard Petty Motorsports). Wednesday's test was the fourth for teams in 2015 under the NASCAR National Series Unified Test Schedule. Open tests have been held at Atlanta, Charlotte and Richmond. The next scheduled test is set for April 29 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In the day's only mishap, Moffitt sustained damage to his #55 Toyota during the morning session after contact with the wall, requiring the team to bring out a backup entry for the remainder of the day.(NASCAR.com)(4-16-2015)

Auto-Owners Insurance makes first appearance of 2015 on #51: Auto-Owners Insurance returns to Allgaier's #51 Chevy this weekend for their second season, and first 2015 race, with HScott Motorsports. The Tennessee-based Griffin Insurance Agency will be on the #51's TV panel to represent an independent Auto-Owners Insurance agency. Auto-Owners will also be on the #51 Chevy at Talladega II and Martinsville II. Several North Carolina independent Auto-Owners Insurance agents spent Tuesday at the HScott Motorsports shop in Spartanburg, S.C. for a private tour given by Justin Allgaier and lunch.(HScott Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #51 team paint schemes page.(4-16-2015)

PhilMor debuts with Annett at Bristol: This month, Pilot Flying J is debuting its PhilMor travel mug, available in two sizes (20- and 24-oz.) and $1.99 each in the month of April with a MyRewards card. Customers can receive up to a 60-cent discount on each drink refill. PhilMor will adorn the hood of Michael Annett's #46 Chevrolet SS this weekend at Bristol, Pilot Flying J's "home track," roughly 115 miles from its Knoxville, Tenn. headquarters.(HScott Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #46 team paint schemes page.(4-16-2015)

Evernham and Sheheen join NBC Sports: NBC Sports Group dded three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion crew chief Ray Evernham and seasoned broadcaster Ralph Sheheen to its growing lineup of motorsports experts. Evernham and Sheheen will handle coverage of NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour Events on NBCSN. 2015 marks the 30th Anniversary season for the northeast-based NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, which traces its roots back to the very first NASCAR-sanctioned race on the beach and road course at Daytona Beach, Fla. in 1948. Evernham, who began his remarkable career in motorsports working on short track race cars at age 15, will first team with Sheheen to cover the 41st running of the Icebreaker from Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park in Thompson, Conn., airing on Saturday, April 18 at 12:30am/et. NASCAR's Whelen Modified Tours, the association's only open-wheeled division, compete at historic short tracks spanning from New Hampshire to North Carolina. The southeast-based NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour was established in 2005 as a sister tour to the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.(NBC Sports)(4-16-2015)

Richard Childress voted in as NRA Second-Vice President: Richard Childress, CEO and Chairman of Richard Childress Racing, was elected as the Second-Vice President of the National Rifle Association during its annual meetings in Nashville, Tenn. this past weekend. Childress has already been a two-term member of the NRA Board of Directors and also serves as the Chairman of the Hunting and Wildlife Conservation Committee for the organization. He has held that position since 2010. His two-year term is effectively immediately. Childress served six years on the Board of Directors of the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation and remains as an Honorary Board Member. He is also currently on the Board of the Boone & Crockett Club and is a member of the newly-formed Blue Ribbon Panel for Wildlife Conservation.(Richard Childress Racing)(4-16-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Thursday - history:
ˇ Groundbreaking for Bristol International Speedway, as Bristol Motor Speedway was originally known, took place in 1960. The track was an exact half-mile.
ˇ First NASCAR Sprint Cup race was July 30, 1961; Jack Smith won the event (with relief from Johnny Allen).
ˇ In the fall of 1969, the track was reshaped and re-measured to .533-miles.
ˇ The name changed to Bristol International Raceway in 1978.
ˇ The first night race was held in the fall of 1978.
ˇ The surface was changed from asphalt to concrete in 1992.
ˇ The name changed to Bristol Motor Speedway in May 1996.
ˇ The track was resurfaced between races in 2007, and the turns were ground down in 2012 to eliminate part of the progressive banking.
(NASCAR)(4-16-2015)

Chassis selections for this week's race: see the list of many teams [that report or post them] and what chassis were selected by the team to run in the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes and Stand Up To Cancer Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway on the Bristol Race Info page - Chassis selection area.

Contreras in the #15 at Bristol: Fully recovered from ligaments injuries sustained in a qualifying crash in the NASCAR XFINITY Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway in February, Carlos Contreras returns to action this weekend in time to make his Bristol Motor Speedway debut in Saturday afternoon's Drive To Stop Diabetes 300. It's hard to believe that through 101 combined starts in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and NASCAR XFINITY Series, Contreras has never tackled Bristol's "Thunder Valley." This weekend though, Contreras will make his dream a reality with the support of BYBExtreme.com / Dawg-Fight.com / Pepe Billete Show on SiriusXM Radio and Global Aircraft Solutions. Following Bristol, the Mexico, City, Mexico driver is slated to compete in the next two NASCAR XFINITY Series races at Richmond International Raceway and Talladega Superspeedway.(Rick Ware Racing)(4-16-2015)

Dale's Pale Ale joins JR Motorsports: JR Motorsports and Dale's Pale Ale have agreed to a multifaceted partnership. The first craft beer to be featured in a can, Dale's Pale Ale will sponsor Regan Smith and the #7 Chevy in the NASCAR XFINITY Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway (Oct. 9). Additionally, Dale's Pale Ale is named the presenting sponsor of Smith's JR Motorsports Upfront podcast on Dirty Mo Radio. Dale's Pale Ale is distinguished as the first craft beer in can form and brewed by the Oskar Blues Brewery from its bases in Brevard, N.C. and Longmont, Colo. Along with its flagship brand Dale's Pale Ale, the Oskar Blues Brewery offers an extensive line of craft and specialty beers. JR Motorsports Up Front, the first Dirty Mo Radio program hosted by a driver, airs every Thursday on Dirty Mo Radio. Hosted by Smith, the program features a revolving door of guests and gives fans honest opinion, exclusive insight, and candid commentary regarding JRM and its XFINITY Series, Camping World Truck Series, and late model teams. In addition to primary placement at Charlotte, Dale's Pale Ale will also be featured as an associate partner on the #7 Chevy for the 2015 season.(JR Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #7 team paint schemes page.(4-16-2015)

Q&A with Jeff Gordon at Sonoma: Jeff Gordon is the undisputed king of Sonoma Raceway, and this year's Toyota/Save Mart 350 will mark the NASCAR legend's final visit to the challenging road course as a full-time driver in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. As a highlight of the NASCAR race weekend in Sonoma, Gordon will be featured in a free 20-minute question-and-answer session on Saturday, June 27. This session is scheduled to begin at 9:00am. and will take place on stage in front of the Main Grandstand near the start/finish line. Gordon, a native of nearby Vallejo, holds almost every significant NASCAR track record in Sonoma, including most wins (five), most pole positions (five), most top-five finishes (14) and most laps led (440). In 22 Sonoma starts, Gordon has 17 top-10 finishes and is the top money earner at $3,307,604. All Track Pass season ticket holders, weekend-pass holders and campers will receive a free credential for stage-front access to the Q&A. Fans who have already purchased a Sunday ticket can get a Saturday ticket for just $24, which includes access to the Main Grandstand to watch the Q&A.(Sonoma Raceway)(4-16-2015)

Kyle Busch meets with media UPDATE: #18-Kyle Busch, injured in an accident during the Daytona XFINITY Series race, met with members of the media at Joe Gibbs Racing on Wednesday afternoon. Some notes:
• Busch says the accident was the hardest hit of his career.
• He left the racing surface at 176mph and impacted the wall at 90mph.
• The crash was so hard that his helmet and chest hit the steering wheel.
• He says he knew instantly that both legs were broken.
• Busch took the blame for the accident, saying that he was being too greedy trying to win the race.
• Doctors have not given him a timeline to return to racing. They are pleased with his progress and believe he is ahead of schedule.
• He would like to be able to return to racing by Daytona in July, but is not sure that will be possible;
• Busch would like to be Chase eligible upon his return, but believes it could be hard to get to the top 30 in points.
• Busch will need additional surgery. He has one scheduled for December to remove screws and plates in his left foot.
(4-15-2015)
UPDATE: #18-Kyle Busch said he does not know when he will get back into a race car but hopes he can return by July as he continues to recover from a broken right leg and a broken left foot suffered in a crash Feb. 21 at Daytona International Speedway. Busch, speaking about his injuries at a news conference Wednesday at Joe Gibbs Racing, said he hit the DIS concrete wall at 90 mph and the g-forces were 90 g's. He said he is healing well and still has a small crack in his right leg as well as a walking boot on his left foot. Kyle Busch suffered a broken right leg and a broken left foot in a Feb. 21 crash at Daytona International Speedway. Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images "First and foremost, I have to please my doctors. ... They say my recovery is going faster [than expected]," Busch said about his possible return. "I don't even ask. They won't release me a timetable." Busch said the wreck was his fault, being greedy trying to win the race. He was trying to push teammate Erik Jones, who ended up spinning. While Jones was spinning, he took the air off the rear of Busch's car, sending him into the skid into the wall. NASCAR has made no decision on whether it will waive the rule that a driver must compete each race weekend in order to be eligible for the Chase for the Sprint Cup. NASCAR also could waive the rule that requires a driver to be eligible with a win and a top-30 placement in the regular-season standings, although it has not waived that rule when issuing past waivers.(ESPN.com)(4-15-2015)

Gordon unveils special scheme for Pocono: NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon will drive a blue and white Penn State car for a June race at Pennsylvania's Pocono Raceway. The four-time Sprint Cup Series winner unveiled the design Tuesday at Penn State. He drove a replica of the repainted Chevy SS around campus and attended a rally with the marching band and cheerleaders. Gordon says the special paint scheme is part of a partnership between the university and one of his sponsors, Philadelphia-based paint producer Axalta Coating Systems. They're pushing science, technology, engineering, math and education and giving 100 Penn State students a chance to tour Pocono's garages, learn car technology from Gordon's crew chief and have dinner with the driver.(Associated Press), see an image of the car on the #24 team paint scheme page.(4-15-2015)

Tweaker Energy Shot joins Whitt for two races: Cole Whitt and Front Row Motorsports' #35 team will have a jolt of new support for the race at Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend. Tweaker Energy Shot joins the team as primary sponsor for Sunday's Food City 500. The company will also be the primary sponsor of Whitt's #35 for the Aug. 9 road-course race at Watkins Glen International. Dallas-based Tweaker Energy Shot offers a line of value-priced energy shots sold at convenience and grocery stores, with a distribution network that is expanding across the country. Its five flavors of two-ounce shots combine herbal supplements with caffeine and vitamins to give consumers a new option in energy shots at a value price. The Front Row Motorsports sponsorship is the growing company's first in the Sprint Cup Series. The product has been on the market since 2008 and now boasts a network of more than 450 distributors. It is sold at retail chains including RaceTrac, Casey's, Circle K, Jewel-Osco, Fiesta Marts, Super Value and Hy-Vee.(Front Row Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #35 team paint schemes page.(4-15-2015)

Ford selling Richard Petty limited-edition Mustang: When Ford launches a new Mustang, expect it to take over the SEMA show. Last year's edition of the aftermarket bacchanal in Vegas was rife with varying takes on Ford's latest iteration of its venerable pony car, not the least of which was a certain GT built by Petty's Garage. Buoyed by popular opinion, Ford teamed up with the King's operation and decided to churn out a limited series of the cars, available for order at your local Ford dealer on a first-come, first-serve basis. Limited to a total of 143 cars for 2015-100 Stage 1 examples and 43 Stage 2 cars-the Petty's Garage Mustang GTs churn out 627 horsepower courtesy of a Ford Racing/Roush blower bolted to the Coyote V-8. That, if you're counting, is within loogie-hocking distance of the recent 662-horse Shelby GT500. A center-exit exhaust system from Magnaflow takes care of noxious evacuation, while up front, a custom fascia suggests to the world that you roll with NASCAR royalty. Inside, you get Richard Petty's John Hancock on the dash, custom floor mats, and embroidered headrests. Twenty-inch HRE wheels shod with Continental tires round out the package. The run of 100 is available in any Mustang color. The Stage 2 builds on the Stage 1 cars with big Wilwood stoppers under three-piece HRE wheels. Stage 2s are also finished with a custom two-tone paint job; it features pearlized Ford Tuxedo Black over Petty Blue blended with crushed and tumbled glass. King Richard's omnipresent #43 is ghosted onto the hood and C-pillar. Example number one was purchased by a singing Englishman who joined a little Australian rock 'n' roll band 35 years ago and cut a few records. Yep, noted hat-wearer and car nut Brian Johnson of AC/DC has already splashed out for the first Stage 2 car, leaving a mere 42 up for grabs. The price? $62,210 for the Stage 1, roughly in line with the old GT500. If, however, you can't live without the three-piece wheels and fancy paint, be prepared to lay down $30,000 more.(Car and Driver)(4-15-2015)

NASCAR Productions upgrades internet speeds at tracks: APXnet, a communications company specializing in complex, multilocation high-speed networks, has helped NASCAR Productions throttle up its ability to send information and provide Internet services at-track to gigabit speeds by designing and managing a fiber optic-based network at race tracks nationwide. The new network is being rolled out for NASCAR Productions to support the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season. The implementation of the new technology represents a significant commitment by NASCAR Productions to improve its communications infrastructure for its clients, including the broadcast partners and race teams at-track. APXnet is installing new fiber optics at the race tracks. APXnet will provide NASCAR Productions with Internet access and private MPLS wide area connectivity nationwide. With the upgrade, NASCAR Productions now has the bandwidth to transmit and receive terabytes of information, increasing and improving the speed of communication at-track.(APXnet PR)(4-15-2015)

Bristol Goodyear Tire Notes: Teams in both the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Xfinity Series will run the same Goodyear tire codes at Bristol this week . . . this is the same combination of left- and right-side tires these teams ran at this track last August . . . Bristol is the only track at which NASCAR teams are scheduled to run either of these two tire codes . . . unlike on most NASCAR ovals one mile or less in length, on which teams generally do not run inner liners in their tires, teams are required to run liners in their right-side tires only at Bristol . . . air pressure in those inner liners should be 12-25 psi greater than that of the outer tire.(Goodyear). See tire codes, pressures and more on the Bristol Race Info - Goodyear section.

New team to debut at Talladega: Deese Racing Enterprises has been issued the #35 in the Xfinity Series by NASCAR and have begun operations in Mooresville, NC. The team will debut the #35 Chevy Camaro at Talladega on May 2nd with plans to compete in the full remaining schedule. Sponsorship agreements are being finalized at this time and announcements regarding sponsors and driver lineup are coming soon.(Deese Racing Enterprises)(4-15-2015)

Earnhardt, Jr. would like to have Rhodes full-time in 2016: Ben Rhodes won't make his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut until next month, but the 18-year-old's already attended a number of races this season, hovering over the #88 team with which he'll work with 10 times this year. Rhodes' team owner - and NASCAR's most popular driver - has come away plenty impressed. Dale Earnhardt Jr. said Wednesday at a Kentucky Speedway test session he'd like to bring on Rhodes for a full season next year in the second-tier circuit - "in a perfect world," of course. "He's an exceptional young man - very well-mannered and well-spoken and has a great opportunity to be successful as a driver but also represent his partners well," Earnhardt Jr. said. "He seems to really understand the importance of being the whole package. He's really doing a lot when it comes to being accountable at the races, standing around and trying to be a sponge for the information that's available to him while we're practicing." JR Motorsports' 2015 Xfinity Series lineup consists of mainstay Regan Smith in the #7, defending champion Chase Elliott in the #9 and Rhodes, along with Sprint Cup Series drivers Earnhardt Jr., Kevin Harvick and Kasey Kahne splitting time in the #88. Next year, Elliott will succeed retiring Jeff Gordon in the Cup Series' No. 24. If sponsorship is there for Rhodes, the opportunity to go full time could be, too.(Louisville Courier Journal)(4-15-2015)

Jeffrey Earnhardt returns to the #55 at Bristol: Jeffrey Earnhardt will once again fill in for sidelined driver, Jamie Dick, at the upcoming NASCAR Xfinity Series race in Bristol, Tennessee. Dick has yet to be medically cleared after being diagnosed with new onset diabetes on March 14th following the Xfinity Series race in Phoenix. In his stead, Earnhardt will drive the #55 Viva Auto Group Camaro. Earnhardt has made three previous starts in this NASCAR Xfinity Series season for Viva Motorsports. He kicked off the season with a strong 16th place finish at Daytona and followed that up with two more promising runs. This weekend's Drive to Stop Diabetes 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway would have been a fitting return to the racetrack for Dick, the 26 year old driver and owner of Viva Motorsports. Unfortunately, Dick's comeback will be delayed a little longer. "I have been anxious to get back in the racecar. I feel great and ready to go, but in this type of scenario, I have to listen to my doctors and not risk my health," explains Dick. "We are getting close to being medically cleared. I am sure that the next time my turn to drive the #55 car comes around, I will be good to go."(Viva Motorsports)(4-15-2015)

Crafton to run off-road race: Two-time champion and current Camping World Truck point leader Matt Crafton is not sitting idle waiting for the tour to return to action next month at Kansas Speedway. Crafton will carry the Chris Kyle Memorial Benefit livery in the TORC: The Off-Road Championship presented by AMSOIL season opener at Texas Motor Speedway April 24-25. The Guardian For Heroes Foundation is working with TORC to promote the Second Annual Chris Kyle Memorial Benefit & Auction the following weekend in Fort Worth. The late Navy SEAL founded established The Guardian For Heroes Foundation to provide life coaching to veterans with disabilities and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders. Chris' father, Wayne Kyle, will serve as the Grand Marshall for the "Roundup in Texas" at TMS. There will also be a Chris Kyle Memorial Benefit information booth at the track where fans can show their support. Crafton's first experience in TORC came at the urging of Travis Pastrana three years ago. In his TORC debut in the PRO 2WD division at Chicagoland Speedway, Crafton finished third. Crafton said racing on the TORC tour was "a bucket list deal".(Motorsport.com)(4-15-2015)

Tours of Michigan International Speedway available: Take a behind the scenes tour of the fastest track in NASCAR - Michigan International Speedway. It is the perfect opportunity to learn how a track prepares for a race and operates all year long. MIS is offering tours to all guests to get a behind the scenes view of the racing facility on four select Thursdays throughout the year. The tours are scheduled for April 23, May 21, Sept. 17 and Oct. 15 beginning at 1:30pm. The tour ($10 per person) will last approximately an hour and a half and will be guided by a knowledgeable MIS staff member. The day is limited to 50 people and you can reserve your spot now by calling (800) 354-1010. Your ticket will be mailed to you. All proceeds benefit MIS Cares, MIS' official charitable fund. Now is your chance to experience the slope of the 18 degrees of banking in the corners. The tour will take fans on one trip around the oval before moving onto the road course depending on track activity. Guests will be taken to the interior of the track through the infield tunnel entrance before stopping off at the media center. While in the infield you will see the Pit Road Suites and then go to the roof to get a view of the entire track. The tour will stop at the Tower behind the grandstands as the guests ride the elevator to a spot high above the track. You will visit the Champions Club presented by CP Federal Credit Union where you not only see the entire racing surface, but the expanse of the facility.(MIS)(4-15-2015)

Appeals panel reduces penalty for #33 team: The National Motorsports Appeals Panel today heard and considered the appeal of a P4 penalty issued on March 25, 2015 to Joseph Falk (owner) and Richard Labbe (crew chief), relative to NASCAR Sprint Cup Series vehicle #33 at Auto Club Speedway. The penalty concerns the following sections in the 2015 NASCAR rule book:
12.1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing;
20.14.2: Rear Suspension: Truck Trailing Arm
E. The left and right side truck trailing arms must be mounted to the truck trailing arm mounting brackets using a one-piece, minimum ž inch diameter magnetic steel bolt.
F. The horizontal centerline of the highest truck trailing arm mounting bolt must not be higher than the top surface of the truck trailing arm crossmember, at the respective truck trailing arm mounting bracket, when the vehicle is at inspection orientation.
INFRACTION: The ž inch diameter magnetic steel truck trailing arm mounting bolt was not installed horizontally.
J.Truck trailing arm must conform to the following drawing as specified in the NASCAR rule book: Rear Suspension-Truck Trailing Arm: A-008-00183-14 Rev.C
INFRACTION: Truck trailing arm monoball sleeve does not meet the drawing specifications. Sleeve is required to be minimum .125 inch minimum thick x two inches wide sleeve machined for press fit of .750 I.D. or .875 I.D. monoball assembly.
20.3.3.2.1: Truck Trailing Arm Crossmember Assembly:Truck Trailing Arm Mounting Brackets
B. Truck trailing arm mounting brackets must be constructed of magnetic steel flat plate with a minimum thickness of 0.169 inch.
INFRACTION: Truck trailing arm mounting bracket adapter was machined from Aluminum solid.
20.20: Assembled Vehicle Overall Rules
A. Except in cases explicitly permitted in the NASCAR rules, installation of additional components and/or modifications of existing components to affect the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle will not be permitted, including but not limited to, safety systems, chassis and roll cage, suspension, steering systems, brake systems, heat shields, body fillers, body sealers, filler panels, drivetrain components and exhaust components.
The original penalty assessed included a $50,000 fine, three-race suspension and probation through Dec. 31 to Labbe and the loss of 25 championship car owner points to Falk. The Appellants (Joseph Falk and Richard Labbe) appealed both penalties. Upon hearing the testimony, the decisions of the National Motorsports Appeals Panel are:
ˇ The Appellants violated one of the rules set forth in the penalty notice, specifically with regards to the aluminum component, but that the other infractions are subject to interpretation.
ˇ The panel amends the original penalty levied by NASCAR to a P2 penalty as follows:
o Loss of 10 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship car owner points for Joseph Falk
o $20,000 fine, three-race suspension (two of which have already been served) plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, and probation through Dec. 31 for crew chief Richard Labbe.
The panel consisted of the following three individuals: Mr. Russell Hackett, Mr. Lake Speed, Mr. John White.
(NASCAR)(4-14-2015)

Jeb Burton adds sponsor: BK Racing and Estes Express Lines have partnered together for the 2015 season as a sponsor on the #26 Toyota of Jeb Burton, starting at Richmond International Raceway. Estes Express Lines, a familiar name in the NASCAR community, and returning sponsor of the Rookie of the Year Contender, will start its partnership with BK Racing under the lights for the Toyota Owners 400. Estes, a top-quality transportation company, began their racing journey in the Camping World Truck Series in 2014. Estes' drive and dedication to their customers falls directly in line with the NASCAR mission to provide excellence.(BK Racing)(4-14-2015)

Kyle Busch to meet with media: #18-Kyle Busch, injured in an accident during the Daytona XFINITY Series race, will meet with members of the media on Wednesday afternoon. The press conference will be shown live at NASCAR.com.(4-14-2015)

Testing at Kentucky: Eight NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers and teams are scheduled to participate in the April 15 open test at Kentucky Speedway ahead of the track's Quaker State 400 in July. The open test will be preceded by a closed Goodyear tire test on April 13 and 14 with one team each from the following organizations: Chip Ganassi Racing, Michael Waltrip Racing, Richard Childress Racing and Roush Fenway Racing. On April 15, #16-Greg Biffle, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #20-Matt Kenseth, #22-Joey Logano, #1-Jamie McMurray, #10-Danica Patrick, #31-Ryan Newman and #9-Sam Hornish Jr. are scheduled to participate in the open test with April 16 serving as a rain date before the Sprint Cup Series heads to Bristol Motor Speedway next weekend.(NASCAR.com)(4-10-2015)
UPDATE: #16-Greg Biffle, #1-Jamie McMurray, #55-Brett Moffitt and #31-Ryan Newman are taking part in a Goodyear tire test Monday and Tuesday at Kentucky Speedway. There will be an open test there Wednesday. Each Sprint Cup organization can have one car test there. This is the second of three Goodyear tire tests this month. Teams were at Richmond International Raceway last week. The month's third tire test is scheduled for April 27-29 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Teams that will have one car at that tire test will be Hendrick Motorsports, Furniture Row Racing, Richard Petty Motorsports and BK Racing.(NBC Sports)
AND Jamie McMurray provided a glimpse of NASCAR's new high tech dashboard during a test at Kentucky Speedway. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver sent out a series of Tweets on Monday while taking part in a Goodyear tire test that gave a couple views of what the new dashboard might look like when it's implemented. The dashboard has the ability to monitor a variety of data including lap times and tire pressure as well as keeping drivers informed on other items during pit stops. NASCAR has stated at some point the information gathered through the new system would be available to fans and offer an interactive way to monitor a car's performance. In fact NASCAR rule book states the a digital dash display "may be used at all Events after August 5, 2015. Digital dash display use will not be permitted before August 5, 1015. Effective January 1, 2016, a digital dash display must be used at all Events."(Motor Racing Network)(4-14-2015)

Gordon wants NASCAR to eliminate pit road timing lines UPDATE: Friday #24-Jeff Gordon was asked about the increased number of penalties issued to teams this season:
Jeff Gordon: "I think the camera system speaks for itself. It's black & white if you want to put it that way. When things roll out of the box or guys leave over the wall too soon or you drive through too many boxes, it's going to bust you. And so it's made all of us have to be that much cleaner and do our jobs that much better and pay more attention to more things than we used to. That didn't have anything to do with what I did last week [when he got caught for speeding late in the race at Martinsville]. That was just us trying to take advantage of speed lines. I think that's the next step. We've got to get rid of these speed lines. It doesn't make any sense. The speed limit is the speed limit. You should never be able to break the speed limit. You should carry the speed limit all the way down pit road. What we do is find pit stalls to try to get around that. So we're ramping up and slowing down and that's what got us in Martinsville. We were just too aggressive with it."(Team Chevy Racing)(4-11-2015)
UPDATE: Jeff Gordon's suggestion for changing the way NASCAR officials police speeds on pit road has merit, according to at least one NASCAR official, but it's unlikely a new system will be adopted anytime soon. "The timing loops really play into our current timing and scoring system, so we believe it's the most fair system to have today," Steve O'Donnell, NASCAR's executive vice president and chief racing development officer, said Monday. "But as we look forward ... and as we integrate our timing and scoring system potentially with the Pro System and a lot of the new technology at the race track, I think you could see us evolve to that potentially in the future ... But (Gordon's) right in terms of something we want to work together on in the future and continue to improve upon."(NASCAR.com)(4-14-2015)

Nature Blast sponsoring Hornish: Expanding their relationship with Richard Petty Motorsports, Nature Blast announced they are taking their partnership to the next level. The cleaning supply company will serve as the primary sponsor for the #9 Ford and driver Sam Hornish Jr. during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 19. Nature Blast is a cutting-edge company that produces cleaning products for home and professional use, all of which are made in America and eco-friendly. All Nature Blast products adorn the ECO logo as certified green products, which address the environmental, safety and health concerns facing today's households by offering products with low toxicity and VOC's, readily bio-degradable in ready to use formulas. The company was an associate sponsor of Hornish and the #9 team during the Daytona 500 and witnessed the power of RPM and Hornish. Nature Blast has already seen the benefits of their partnership on the B2B front by forming a new relationship with SHOP.COM. Kicking off Bristol race weekend, Nature Blast products will now be sold on SHOP.COM. To celebrate this exciting news, SHOP.COM will be featured on the #9 Nature Blast Ford.(Richard Petty Motorsports)(4-14-2015)

FanVision renews deal with NASCAR: FanVision, the in-venue technology and content provider used at professional sporting events across the country, announced a four-year extension of an existing commercial license agreement with NASCAR. FanVision will remain NASCAR's exclusive handheld television in-venue race content broadcaster through the 2019 season. FanVision device and services offer fans customizable access to the live race broadcast, multiple in-car camera feeds, instant replays, in-depth statistics, and a digital scanner to listen to drivers and crews. Fans can rent or buy their own FanVision device trackside at any one of the company's eight retail locations at every race.(FanVision)(4-14-2015)

Top 10 Driver Ratings at Bristol Motor Speedway:
#20-Matt Kenseth 103.4
#18-Kyle Busch 100.0
#24-Jeff Gordon 99.9
#2-Brad Keselowski 98.6
#16-Greg Biffle 93.5
#48-Jimmie Johnson 91.9
#4-Kevin Harvick 91.6
#41-Kurt Busch 91.6
#42-Kyle Larson 91.6
#11-Denny Hamlin 90.1
Note: Driver Ratings compiled from 2005-2014 races (20 total) among active drivers at Bristol Motor Speedway. Formula combining the following categories: Win, Finish, Top-15 Finish, Average Running Position while on Lead Lap, Average Speed Under Green, Fastest Lap, Led Most Laps, Lead-Lap Finish. Maximum: 150 points per race.<
See an explanation how the Driver Rating is calculated at NASCAR.com.(NASCAR)

Sponsor renews with Cope for Bristol: Nature Nate's Honey buzzes on board the Derrike Cope Racing #70 Camaro as the primary sponsor for the fastest half mile in the world, Bristol. Serving nature's sweetest nectar, Nature Nate's Honey is 100% Pure, Raw & Unfiltered, the way nature intended. Nature Nate's is a Texas company that prides itself in selling honey that is entirely sourced by American bees, encouraging beekeeping practices that eliminate pesticides, antibiotics and adulterated honey.(Derrike Cope Racing), see an image of the car on the #70 team paint schemes page.(4-14-2015)

FedEx, Autism Speaks and Dover International Speedway renew sponsorship agreement: FedEx Corp., Autism Speaks and Dover International Speedway announce their renewed collaboration for the "FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks" NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, May 31, 2015. This marks the fifth year the three have worked together to raise awareness for an important cause. With its return as title sponsor of the "FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks," FedEx continues to maintain a strong presence in NASCAR, including their primary sponsorship of the #11 FedEx Toyota Camry, driven by Denny Hamlin and fielded by Joe Gibbs Racing. FedEx, Autism Speaks and the Speedway are working to finalize additional elements of the race weekend, but announce the return of the popular Autism Speaks Day at the Races program. This special event returns for the fourth year and provides the opportunity for those on the autism spectrum and their families to attend a NASCAR race in a safe environment. The ticket package includes pre-race appearances by NASCAR drivers and personalities; brief presentations by educational speakers in the morning; food and drink; seating in the air-conditioned grandstands at the Monster Mile, which offers great views of the race along the backstretch of the track; and much more. A reserved area near their seats provides a quiet zone, with muted lighting and sound, allows attendees to take a break from the race and crowds when necessary. The room includes comfortable seating, games, and video screens to help fans keep up with the races or watch family friendly movies. This marks the ninth straight year that Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, will partner with Dover International Speedway to help raise funds and awareness for the cause throughout the weekend. Autism Speaks will once again be represented by drivers in all three national touring series, who will feature decals on their cars throughout the weekend. This is something that has taken place in previous race weekends at Dover, with 67 drivers participating in 2014.(Dover International Speedway)(4-14-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway mobile app available: Bristol Motor Speedway guests attending the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes will be able to stay up to date on every aspect of the race weekend activities with the Speedway's new mobile app for iPhone and Android users. The free app will be updated real-time with event schedules, ticket information, the latest news, entertainment options, photos, maps, directions, as well as live audio of race broadcasts. The new app is available on iTunes and Google Play by searching Bristol Motor Speedway. Guests need to register in the application to gain access to the full feature set and communications.(BMS)(4-14-2015)

Texas TV Ratings: NASCAR on FOX continues to struggle on Saturday nights. NASCAR Sprint Cup racing from Texas drew a 2.9 overnight rating on FOX Saturday night, down 17% from 2013 (3.5) and down 19% from 2012 (3.6). Last year's Texas race was postponed due to rain, earning a 2.3 overnight in its scheduled Sunday afternoon window. Excluding rainouts, the 2.9 overnight is the lowest ever for a NASCAR Sprint Cup race on FOX (dates back to 2001), falling below the previous mark of 3.0 for coverage from Richmond last year. Nine of the ten lowest rated NASCAR on FOX telecasts in the metered markets have taken place on a Saturday night. The 2.9 is also easily the lowest ever for NASCAR from Texas, again excluding rainouts. The previous low was the 3.5 in 2013. Saturday's record-low overnight continues a recent stall in NASCAR's momentum. After the season's first three races had increases in overnights compared to last year, the past four (including one on Fox Sports 1) have either been flat or declined.(Sports Media Watch via Sports Business Daily)(4-13-2015)

Entry List for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes and Stand Up To Cancer Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway is posted, 45 teams/drivers [for 43 spots] are listed, including: #30-Hornaday, #32-Bliss, #33-Kennedy, #34-Buescher, #55-Moffitt.
Drivers who need to be in the top-36 in speed and have no provisional available to them (lowest in owners points): #62-Gaughan (45th in owner points), #30-Hornaday (49th)
Drivers who would miss the race if qualifying is canceled (least race attempts): #95-McDowell (4 attempts) #30-Hornaday (3 attempts)
See the full entry list at my Jayski.com's Bristol Entry List

Three drivers start season with top-ten streaks UPDATES: #78-Martin Truex Jr.'s 7th place finish at Martinsville marked his sixth consecutive top-10 finish. That's the longest top-10 streak to open a season since Greg Biffle scored six top-10s to begin the 2010 campaign (finishing 6th in the standings). Truex isn't the only one though. Points leader #4-Kevin Harvick and #22-Joey Logano also have opened the season with six consecutive top-10s to open the season. The NASCAR record for most top-10 finishes to open a season is 10 set by Lee Petty in 1955 (finished 3rd in the standings) and James Hylton in 1972 (finished 3rd in the standings).(NBC Sports)
UPDATE: the record is actually held by Morgan Shepherd, who opened the 1990 season with 11 consecutive top-10 finishes in the #15 Motorcraft Ford owned by Hall of Famer Bud Moore. Shepherd finished with 16 top-10 finishes in 29 races during the 1990 season, finishing 5th in the Championship.(3-31-2015)
UPDATE 2: #4-Kevin Harvick, #22-Joey Logano, and #78-Martin Truex, Jr. all continued their top-10 streaks Saturday night at Texas. The streaks are the longest in each driver's career.
Logano has 2 previous streaks of 6 races -- Indianapolis to Atlanta in 2013 and Richmond to Charlotte in the fall of 2014.
Truex, Jr's previous streak is 5 races -- Bristol to Kansas in the spring of 2012.
Harvick has now finished in the top-10 in the last 10 races, starting at Texas last November. Previously he had top-10 streaks of 9 races -- Pocono to Kansas in 2008 and Darlington to New Hampshire in 2013.(4-13-2015)

Passenger dies at Richard Petty driving experience UPDATE: A 36-year-old Davenport man died [Sunday] after a Lamborghini in which he was riding lost control at the Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the driver failed to maneuver the high-powered sports car through one of the course's curves, and the vehicle's right side struck a guardrail. The passenger was pronounced dead at the scene, according to FHP's Sgt. Kim Montes. The male driver was taken to Celebration Hospital with minor injuries. Neither the driver nor the passenger were identified. The incident took place at about 3:30pm at the Exotic Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway, according to the FHP report. The track is operated by Petty Holdings, which has other Exotic Driving Experience attractions at speedways in Atlanta, Daytona Beach, Charlotte, New Jersey, Kansas, New Hampshire and Texas. The Richard Petty Driving Experience, where fans can drive NASCAR cars or ride shotgun at speeds up to 165 mph, opened in 1997. Four years ago, Petty Holdings introduced the exotic-car experience, where people can drive Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Porsches. The crash remains under investigation, according to the FHP.(Examiner)
AND The Florida Highway Patrol said that Tavon Watson, 24, of Kissimmee, failed to maneuver the sports car through one of the road course's curves. The car's right side struck a guardrail. His passenger, Gary Terry, was pronounced dead at the scene. Terry was the operations manager for the track. Terry competed in NASCAR's Southeast, Southwest and Midwest Series from 1999-2002. In 36 starts he scored two top-5 finishes. He was the head driving instructor for the RPDE at the Walt Disney World Speedway from 2001 to 2013 when he became the operations manager.(Examiner)(4-13-2015)
UPDATE Comments from Richard Petty, "The entire Petty family, and everyone associated with Petty, is deeply saddened by the passing of Gary Terry yesterday. Our prayers go out to his family and everyone affected by this tragedy. We are all thinking about the family and friends of Gary and all the employees of the Exotic Driving Experience."(Richard Petty Motorsports)(4-13-2015)

XFINITY Entry List:There are 39 cars on the preliminary entry list for Saturday's Drive to Stop Diabetes 300 at Bristol Speedway. A few notes:
Jeff Green is back in the #10 for TriStar;
Derek White will drive the #13;
The Rick Ware #15 is TBA;
Ryan Blaney will drive the #22 for Penske;
Carl Long will be back in the #40;
Brenna Poole remains in the #42 for HScott Motorsports.(4-13-2015)
See the complete list on the Bristol entry list page.

Shepherd to attempt Bristol race: #89-Morgan Shepherd and Shepherd Racing Ventures announce that King's Tire will be the sponsor of the XFINITY #89 Chevy for Bristol's 33rd Annual Drive To Stop Diabetes 300 on April 18, 2015. Shepherd Racing Ventures welcomes Tony Furr as Crew Chief for the weekend.(Shepherd Racing Ventures)(4-13-2015)

Chase Rice to perform at Talladega: Country music maverick and Columbia Nashville recording artist Chase Rice, who has NASCAR ties, will be the featured artist for Talladega Superspeedway's traditional Saturday Night Infield Concert, May 2, during an exciting weekend that will feature the Winn-Dixie 300 and GEICO 500. Rice will take the stage at NASCAR's "Party Capital" just hours after the conclusion of the Winn-Dixie 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race, and the night before the GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event, in which the winning driver will all but be guaranteed a spot in the season-ending Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. In what has become a Talladega tradition with top music acts, the Saturday Night Concert will feature Rice, whose edgy music will match perfectly with the rowdy infield crowd of the biggest and baddest racetrack on the planet. With hits like "Ready Set Roll" and his current single "Gonna Wanna Tonight" on the set list, Rice will have the intersection of Eastaboga and Talladega Boulevards rocking well into the night. The best part about the concert is that admission is FREE with the purchase of a Sunday race ticket for the GEICO 500. A former linebacker at the University of North Carolina, Rice has worn many different hats so far in life. In the sport of NASCAR, he served as a part of the Hendrick Motorsports team pit crew before moving to Nashville to pursue music full-time.(TSS)(4-13-2015)

Goodyear explains problems of altering tires: The biggest topic of conversation over the past few weeks in the NASCAR garage has been tires -- more specifically, teams altering tires. Starting at the end of the 2014 season, NASCAR began taking tires from select teams as their post-race inspection process. The practice began again this year starting with the third race of the Sprint Cup Series season at Phoenix International Raceway. The rumor in the garage has been team are poking tiny 0.001- to 0.002-inch holes in the sidewall of the tire to bleed air pressure, allowing the tire to reach optimal pressure sooner and maximizing grip. Last week, NASCAR issued a P5 penalty to the #31 Richard Childress Racing team for manipulating tires at Auto Club Speedway. NASCAR did not say specifically how the tires were altered, and the team has appealed the penalty. While it is clear altering tires is a major violation of the NASCAR rulebook, why is it a bad idea to do so? Greg Stucker, director of racing for Goodyear, sat down with FOXSports.com Friday at Texas Motor Speedway to explain.
"The tire is a structure and it's kind of a membrane, it requires the air pressure to give it rigidity and to give it the load-carrying capacity that we need," he said. "It's not just the tire itself; it's a combination of the tire and the inflation pressure that's in the tire, the air that you put in the tire that enables it to carry that load. We make a pressure recommendations knowing what the loads are at a place like Texas, knowing what the construction of the tire is, so those two work together to carry the loads that the car is going to see," said Stucker. "If you try to manipulate that you could be operating outside the envelope where the tire is meant to operate. The other thing is ... you run the risk of damaging the structural members of the tire itself," he said. "The tire has cords; it has fabric that creates its structure. If you damage one of those cords, then you lower the integrity of that component. You certainly have a high risk that the tire could fail because you've damaged one of the components."
So while NASCAR made it clear with the penalties to Newman and the No. 31 RCR team that altering tires isa major offense, there is much more to the reasons behind the rule. According to Stucker, altering tires is not a concern for Goodyear in terms of competitive advantage; it is really all about maintaining the integrity of the tires on each car on the track.(FoxSports)(4-12-2015)

Gibbs says Jones is "ready to go" to Cup; MWR an option?: With Kyle Busch's return date still undetermined from a broken right leg and broken left foot suffered in a crash in February, Joe Gibbs has talked about putting Erik Jones in Busch's Cup car when he feels it's the right time. Jones' performance in outlasting Brad Keselowski and Dale Earnhardt Jr. for the victory Friday no doubt is encouraging Gibbs to make "the right time" sooner than later, as Jones won in just his ninth Xfinity start. "There's no question that at some point very quick he's going to be in a Cup car some," Gibbs said. "We kind of have a little bit of a strategy there that we've talked about. He's ready to go at any time." Jones is driving for Kyle Busch Motorsports full time in the Camping World Truck Series while also driving as many Xfinity races as possible for JGR that don't conflict with his trucks schedule. Gibbs doesn't have any room to expand his Cup program, as he has the current maximum of four teams and all his drivers are signed through at least 2016. He can run a fifth car for up to seven races for a development driver or loan him to another Cup team. "We know that Erik is on the fast track," Gibbs said. "It's just a matter of when."(ESPN.com)(4-12-2015)
AND If Joe Gibbs Racing cannot find a Sprint Cup ride for Erik Jones, fellow Toyota team owner Rob Kauffman says Michael Waltrip Racing might have a Camry for the 18-year-old phenom. "There are a lot of moving parts, but we would love to figure something out," Kauffman told Motorsports.com prior to Saturday's Duck Commander 500. Kauffman acknowledged he went to Victory Lane last night during Jones' celebration to congratulate Coach Gibbs and Dave Wilson, President and General Manager, Toyota Racing Development. "We have some open seats, potentially. We'd love to expand when it makes sense." Currently MWR runs two teams - the #15 with veteran Clint Bowyer, who is in the first year of the three-year contract and the #55 with Moffitt, who is filling in for Brian Vickers while he recovers from blood clots. "I think Brian's doing better," Kauffman added. "I haven't talked to him in a bit...but right now the important thing is his health."(Motorsport)(4-12-2015)

Texas Race and Commercial Breakdown: For those of you NASCAR fans that like stats and love to hate commercials, here is the breakdown for Saturday's race. Began recording the times at the Invocation of the race at 7:30 PM, and stopped at the waving of the checkered flag at 11:22 PM (all times are EST). Fox was the broadcast team for this event.
Total number of commercials: 129
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 64
Number of traditional commercials (not split-screen): 123
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 63
Number of 'Side-by-Side' commercials during race broadcast (split-screen): 6
Total number of companies or entities advertised: 5
Number of times Fox utilized 'Side-by-Side' commercials during this broadcast: 1
Total number of brief promos of products/services during the race broadcast (including company logos 'floating' in corners of the screen): 23
Total amount of time these brief promos take during broadcast: app. 4 min. 20 sec.
Start time to record race/commercial periods: 7:30 PM
End time to record race/commercial periods: 11:22 PM
Total minutes of complete race broadcast: 232
Minutes of race broadcast: 181
Minutes of traditional commercials (not split-screen): 51
Minutes of 'Side-by-Side' commercials (split-screen): 2
Number of missed restarts: 0
Number of 'mystery cautions' (debris not shown): 3
Total race brdcst time 181 Total comm. brdcst time 51
See full reports, sponsor links, much more details at CawsnJaws.com.(4-12-2015)

McMurray co-hosting bowling event in Chicago: Jamie McMurray and 2014 Heisman Trophy Runner-Up Melvin Gordon are partnering to co-host a celebrity bowling event on April 28, prior to the NFL Draft, and Chicagoland Speedway fans now have an exclusive opportunity to purchase a ticket to the event and Chicagoland's June's XFINITY Series race. Tickets to Stars and Strikes are $100, with proceeds going to Ronald McDonald House Charities. Fans will have an opportunity to enjoy complimentary food, beer and soft drinks while meeting celebrity athletes and entertainers in addition to playing billiards and bidding on exclusive items in a live auction. Beyond the night of celebrity entertainment, purchasers will also receive a ticket to Chicagoland Speedway's stand-alone June XFINITY Series race on Father's Day Weekend as a part of the $100 package. Stars and Strikes, which runs from 6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m., will be held at Lucky Strike in Chicago's Streeterville neighborhood. The event will feature celebrity athletes and entertainers in addition to Gordon, the Wisconsin Badgers standout, and McMurray, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series star. Only 150 tickets are available for purchase and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.(Chicagoland Speedway)(4-12-2015)

#48-Jimmie Johnson wins at Texas: #48-Jimmie Johnson won the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway for his 2nd win of the season, 5th win at Texas Motor Speedway and his 72nd career win.
#4-Harvick finished second, the rest of the top 10: #88-Earnhardt, Jr., #22-Logano, #2-Keselowski, #1-McMurray, #24-Gordon, #5-Kahne, #78-Truex, Jr. and #19-Edwards.
Harvick, Logano, and Truex, Jr have all finished in the top-10 every race this season.
Pole sitter #41-Kurt Busch led 46 laps on the night, but finished 14th.
Harvick continues to hold the Chase points lead. He and Johnson each have 2 wins on the season but Harvick has 306 points to #48-Johnson's 216.
There were 29 lead changes among 9 drivers. There were 8 cautions for 40 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 140.500mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
(4-11-2015)

Race Fast Facts - Texas Speedway:
Jimmie Johnson won the 19th Annual Duck Commander 500, his 72nd victory in 478 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races.
This is his second victory and fourth top-10 finish in 2015. His first win of 2015 came at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
This is his fifth victory and 18th top-10 finish in 24 races at Texas Motor Speedway. It is his first win in the spring race.
Kevin Harvick (second) posted his 13th top-10 finish in 25 races at Texas Motor Speedway. It is his seventh top-10 finish in 2015.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. (third) posted his 15th top-10 finish in 26 races at Texas Motor Speedway.
Kevin Harvick leads the point standings by 26 points over Joey Logano.
(NASCAR Integrated Sports Marketing)(4-11-2015)

2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Chase Standings:
[after Texas, race 7 of 36]
(by wins, then by points)
1) #4-Kevin Harvick [2 wins], 306
2) #48-Jimmie Johnson [2 wins], 216, -90
3) #22-Joey Logano [1 win], 280, -26
4) #2-Brad Keselowski [1 win], 246, -60
5) #11-Denny Hamlin [1 win], 205, -101
6) #78-Truex Jr., 266, -40
7) #5-Kasey Kahne, 230, -76
8) #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., 213, -93
9) #43-Aric Almirola, 195, -111
10) #18-David Ragan, 194, -112
11) #1-Jamie McMurray, 193, -113
12) #20-Matt Kenseth, 189, -117
13) #24-Jeff Gordon, 186, -120
14) #19-Carl Edwards, 182, -124
15) #13-Casey Mears, 178, -128
16) #27-Paul Menard, 177, -129
(ties are broken by wins, 2nds, 3rds, etc)
See the Unofficial Drivers Points Standings page (pdf) and Unofficial Owners Points Standings page (pdf).(4-11-2015)

Texas Saturday Pre-Race Schedule:
6:50pm: NSCS Drivers Introductions/ NASCAR Special Awards presented backstage. Jase Robertson to Intro Top 10.
7:29pm: Pledge of Allegiance led by Boy Scouts
7:30pm: Presentation of Colors by: US Army Reserve 1st Battalion 354th Regiment 95th Division Grand Prairie, Texas
7:30pm: Invocation by: Sadie Robertson
7:31pm: National Anthem: Reed Robertson
7:32pm: Fly-By TOT: Cavanaugh Flight Museum
7:38pm: "Drivers, Start Your Engines" by: Duck Commander; Si Robertson
7:46:30pm: Start of the Duck Commander 500
eastern time (NASCAR.com)

Tabitha Burton battling breast cancer: Two weeks ago, Tabitha Burton, mother of Sprint Cup driver #26-Jeb Burton and wife of former Daytona 500 winner Ward Burton, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Jeb, driving for BK Racing in his rookie season in the Sprint Cup series, honored his mother by having the deck lid of his #26 Toyota painted to wish his her well. Friday morning Jeb tweeted a picture of the design. After failing to qualify for Saturday's Duck Commander 500, Burton told NASCAR Talk the deck lid was a surprise for his mother that day and he hadn't heard from her yet. Burton said he might keep the tribute for one more race.(NBC Sports)(4-11-2015)

NASCAR opposed to use of bleeder valves: In other forms of motorsport, including short track and dirt racing, bleeder valves [for tires] are commonplace and allowed. That has been the number one question in the aftermath of the tire tampering penalty handed down to Ryan Newman, Richard Childress Racing and the #31 Sprint Cup Series team last week. This had prompted numerous drivers to suggest that NASCAR would be better off allowing bleeder valves as well. Jeff Gordon has been perhaps the most vocal proponent of bleeder valves in the Sprint Cup garage. Sprint Cup Series director Richard Buck [says] the technology is too inconsistent for use in NASCAR.
"In regard to the tire bleeders, we work our partner Goodyear and with our teams and at this point, I personally don't know if there are any bleeders out there at the level that these cars would require," Buck told Popular Speed on Friday afternoon. "I know there are other forms of motorsports like dirt car racing and sprint car racing that I've seen before and (those valves) were very touchy and non-repeatable. If they fail, it was a catastrophic failure of the system, so I don't think there is a system that is out there today." Furthermore, Buck is content without having bleeder valves because it's the same and fair for everyone in the garage. "It allows teams to adjust on the tires," Buck continued. "It allows for drivers to provide feedback on the tires. A driver can change the handling based on how he changes the load of the tire pressure. "So there still a lot of human interaction in working with the tires."(Popular Speed)(4-11-2015)

Gordon wants NASCAR to eliminate pit road timing lines: Friday #24-Jeff Gordon was asked about the increased number of penalties issued to teams this season:
Jeff Gordon: "I think the camera system speaks for itself. It's black & white if you want to put it that way. When things roll out of the box or guys leave over the wall too soon or you drive through too many boxes, it's going to bust you. And so it's made all of us have to be that much cleaner and do our jobs that much better and pay more attention to more things than we used to. That didn't have anything to do with what I did last week [when he got caught for speeding late in the race at Martinsville]. That was just us trying to take advantage of speed lines. I think that's the next step. We've got to get rid of these speed lines. It doesn't make any sense. The speed limit is the speed limit. You should never be able to break the speed limit. You should carry the speed limit all the way down pit road. What we do is find pit stalls to try to get around that. So we're ramping up and slowing down and that's what got us in Martinsville. We were just too aggressive with it."(Team Chevy Racing)(4-11-2015)

NASCAR 15 game to be released in May: Retailer GameStop and developer Dusenberry Martin Racing announced Friday that professional racing game NASCAR 15 is in development and will launch in just over a month, on May 22, 2015. The disc-based Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of the game will be released exclusively at GameStop, though digital versions versions will be available on Xbox Live and PlayStation Network. Meanwhile, a digital PC version will launch on Steam. NASCAR 15 is the first entry in the series since the NASCAR video game rights switched hands from Eutechnyx to Dusenberry Martin Racing, a subsidiary of DMi Games. It's described as more of an update than a new game, and will cost just $20. It features new 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cut Series paint schemes, and also includes a career mode and numerous teams and tracks, as well as "enhanced online mulitplayer and leagues." (GameSpot)(4-11-2015)

Military family receives year of groceries from Eckrich: On the set of "Good Morning Texas," Army Sergeant Robert Morgan and his wife Ashley were honored by Eckrich, the makers of naturally hardwood smoked sausage and delimeats, after being surprised with a special invitation to be VIP guests of theirs and the #43 Richard Petty Motorsports race team during this Saturday's race in Ft. Worth. The offer from Eckrich to join the team came with official team crew shirts and hats for the Morgan family. But, there was more. Eckrich then presented the family with a gift of free groceries for one year at Kroger. The groceries will help the Morgans who are parents of two young children. Eckrich, a brand of Smithfield Foods, will host Sergeant Morgan and his wife Saturday at the race track with an insider look at the No. 43 Eckrich race team. The family will join the team on the starting grid before the race and split their time during the race between the team's pit box and a luxury suite. Sergeant Morgan is currently active duty and serving in Dallas. He has been enlisted in the Army since 2007 and has been deployed to Iraq to serve our country. The race experience and gift of free groceries is part of Eckrich's ongoing partnership with Operation Homefront, a national nonprofit that provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors.(Breaking Limits)(4-11-2015)

Texas Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Saturday - race:
ˇ 22 of the 28 (78.5%) NASCAR Sprint Cup races at Texas Motor Speedway have been won from a top-10 starting position.
ˇ Four of the 28 (14.2%) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Texas Motor Speedway have been won from a starting position outside the top 20.
ˇ The deepest in the field that a race winner has started at Texas Motor Speedway is 31st, by Matt Kenseth in 2002.
ˇ There have been five NSCS green-white-checker finishes at Texas Motor Speedway: fall 2006 (334/339), spring 2008 (334/339), fall 2012 (334/335), spring 2014 (334/340) and fall 2014 (334/341).
ˇ Roush Fenway Racing leads the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in wins at Texas Motor Speedway with nine; followed by Hendrick Motorsports with six and Joe Gibbs Racing with four.
ˇ Three of the 28 (11.1%) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Texas Motor Speedway have been won from the Coors Light pole; Kasey Kahne (2006), Jimmie Johnson (2012) and Kyle Busch (2013).
ˇ Since the advent of electronic scoring the closest margin of victory in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Texas Motor Speedway was the (4/4/2004) race won by Elliott Sadler with a MOV of 0.028 second ahead of Kasey Kahne.
(NASCAR)(4-11-2015)

Driver Introduction passes available at Michigan: Michigan International Speedway continues to bring fans closer to the action and provide unique experiences for the guests. In 2015, fans attending the Quicken Loans 400 in June and the Pure Michigan 400 in August will have the opportunity to purchase a Driver Introduction Pass. Now is your chance to stand on the frontrstretch during the driver introductions for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races. Race days have always been a memorable experience full of nonstop activities. Now is your turn to add to the excitement with a Driver Introduction Pass. You will be so close to the drivers as they are introduced to the crowd you might be able to get a handshake. Fans can add a Driver Introduction pass to their Pit and Paddock Pass and daily admission order by calling 800-354-1010. Or you can purchase the Driver Intro and Pit and Paddock Pass package at www.mispeedway.com. You can experience pit road up close, sign the start/finish line, take your photo with the trophy on race morning and view the cars and race teams during pre-race preparations. A Pit and Paddock Pass is your best opportunity to try and get your favorite driver's autograph. The paddock is in the infield area, just behind the garages and pit roads. It's where kids can go and get pretty close to pit road and their favorite drivers.(MIS)(4-11-2015)

Pit Stall Selections: The selections of pit stalls for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway have been made.
Pole sitter #41-Busch chose pit stall 1 [as do most pole sitters].
Outside pole sitter #4-Harvick took pit stall 14, the first pit stall with an opening in front of it.
#2-Keselowski, who starts 3rd took the 43rd and final pit stall.
To see where the drivers/teams pit stall is, see the pit selection chart on the Pit Stall Selection chart.(4-10-2015)

Kurt Busch wins Texas pole: #41-Kurt Busch won the Coors Light pole for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway with speed of 193.847mph for his 2nd pole of 2015, 1st at Texas and 18th of his career.
#4-Harvick is on the outside pole followed by #2-Keselowski, #5-Kahne, #48-Johnson, #22-Logano, #31-Newman, #27-Menard, #42-Larson, and #1-McMurray.
Missing the race were: #62-Gaughan and #26-Burton.
See the starting lineup, round-by-round qualifying results and more on Jayski.com's Texas Qualifying Page.(4-10-2015)

Second Round of Qualifying for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway is over after 10 scheduled minutes.
#4-Harvick 194.021
#41-Busch 193.653
#42-Larson 193.653
#27-Menard 193.112
#2-Keselowski 193.036
the rest of the top 12: 1 31 22 5 24 48 14;
out of the top 12 and not advancing to round 3: 21 3 78 19 20 11 16 13 10 17 6 51
(4-10-2015)

First Round of Qualifying for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway is over, after 20 scheduled minutes.
#24-Gordon 194.981
#4-Harvick 194.581
#42-Larson 193.986
#41-Busch 193.694
#14-Stewart 193.507
the rest of the top 24: 7 13 16 5 6 11 21 1 22 78 10 2 17 19 31 51 48 3 20;
out of the top 24 and not advancing to round 2: 88 47 15 46 9 18 35 43 40 7 98 55 32 38 95 62 26 34 83
Drivers who will miss the race: #62-Gaughan, #26-Burton.
(4-10-2015)

Final practice for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway is over after 80 minutes, the top five, slowest two and some notes:
#5-Kahne 190.975
#48-Johnson 190.523
#1-McMurray 189.653
#11-Hamlin 189.560
#13-Mears 189.062
Most laps run: #4-Harvick 62, #1-McMurray 56
slowest: #33-Kennedy 181.014 & #32-Bliss 180.126.
notes: Qualifying is scheduled for 6:45pm/et tonight and will be shown on FS1.
See fastest speeds, laps run, best 10 Consecutive Lap Average on the Texas practice 2 speeds page (pdf).(4-10-2015)

Standard Plumbing Supply sponsoring Whitt at Texas: Standard Plumbing Supply will go racing with Cole Whitt for Saturday's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway, partnering with the #35 Ford team for one of the fastest events on the series' circuit. The Utah-based company operates wholesale stores at more than 80 locations in eight western states, providing residential and commercial plumbing, heating and cooling, and hydronics products to contractors, cities, states, schools and the public. The family-run company celebrates 63 years of service this year. Whitt enters the Texas Motor Speedway race weekend with three consecutive top-25 finishes with his #35 team.(Front Row Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #35 team paint schemes page.(4-10-2015)

First Friday practice for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway is over after 90 minutes, the top five, slowest two and some notes:
#78-Truex, Jr. 191.096
#5-Kahne 190.463
#4-Harvick 189.773
#13-Meards 189.182
#18-Ragan 189.129
Most laps run: #33-Kennedy 65, #88-Earnhardt, Jr. 62
slowest: #32-Bliss 182.235 & #33-Kennedy 179.134.
notes: Sprint Cup teams will have a second (and final) practice today at 2:00pm/et. Qualifying is scheduled for 6:45pm/et tonight.
See fastest speeds, laps run, best 10 Consecutive Lap Average on the Texas practice 1 speeds page (pdf).(4-10-2015)

Bristol race renamed to honor Steve Byrnes: In recognition of FOX Sports broadcaster Steve Byrnes' courageous and ongoing battle with head-and-neck cancer, FOX Sports, in coordination with Bristol Motor Speedway, Speedway Motorsports Inc., Stand Up To Cancer and NASCAR, is naming the April 19 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race from Bristol the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer. The event, which will be aired live on FOX at 12:30pm/et, pays tribute to Byrnes, a NASCAR television mainstay for 30 years, while also serving as a vehicle of support and awareness for all those battling cancer. Byrnes, co-host of "NASCAR Race Hub" and play-by-play announcer for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, is on a medical leave of absence while he undergoes treatment. He has been part of the FOX NASCAR broadcast team since its inaugural year of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series coverage in 2001. "The support I have received from my teammates at FOX Sports, drivers, team members, track officials, NASCAR and the fans has been overwhelming," Byrnes said. "So many families are affected by cancer, and to play a small part in raising awareness is an honor to me."(FoxSports)(4-10-2015)

Qualifying Order for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway is posted. 45 cars/drivers are listed.
The first of the drivers scheduled to go out is #83-DiBenedetto.
The final driver scheduled to go out is #62-Gaughan.
Qualifying order is set by a random draw, held about an hour before the first practice.
See the full qualifying order on Jayski.com's Texas Qualifying Page.(4-10-2015)

Maxwell House sponsoring MWR: Michael Waltrip Racing and Maxwell House announced a partnership which names the iconic coffee maker as primary racing sponsor for five Sprint Cup races during the 2015 season and the prestigious DAYTONA 500 in February 2016. The 10-month agreement officially kicks off on Aug. 2 with the Pennsylvania 400 at the Pocono Raceway. Clint Bowyer will drive the #15 Maxwell House Toyota at Watkins Glen International, Pocono Raceway, Martinsville Speedway and Texas Motor Speedway in the second half of the 2015 season. Waltrip, a two-time DAYTONA 500 champion, will carry the Maxwell House colors at Talladega Superspeedway in October and in the 2016 DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Maxwell House is no stranger to the racing circuit, having partnered with some of the most well-known drivers in professional racing between 1989 and 2003, including Michael Waltrip. Other elements of the sponsorship will include special appearances by the Michael Waltrip Racing team, exclusive behind-the-scenes access for select fans, special in-season and grocery store promotions and sampling at select races. Maxwell House is also an associate sponsor of the remaining Sprint Cup races.(MWR), see an image of the car on the #15 team paint schemes page.(4-10-2015)

Buescher to remain in the #34 at Bristol & Talladega: Chris Buescher carries some good news with him to his home track of Texas Motor Speedway this week. The 22-year-old driver will pilot the #34 CSX "Play It Safe" Ford for fan-favorite NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 19 and Talladega Superspeedway on May 3. The arrangement will extend Buescher's run with Front Row Motorsports' #34 team to five races. He has been filling the seat for Front Row regular David Ragan, who continues to sub for the injured Kyle Busch in the #18 car. Buescher is welcomed by CSX as an additional spokesperson for the transportation company's safety campaign, which reminds people to "Play It Safe" around railroad tracks and to brake for trains. CSX, with its network covering 21,000 miles of railroad tracks in 23 states, has partnered with Front Row Motorsports and the #34 team for three consecutive seasons, targeting males age 18 to 34 with its safety message.(Front Row Motorsports)(4-10-2015)

Larson feels fine: #42-Kyle Larson smiled with a bottle of an electrolyte drink in his hand Thursday, showing no ill effects from a fainting spell that kept him out of the March 29 race at Martinsville Speedway. About the only lingering effects from his March 28 fainting spell are texts from car owner Chip Ganassi on what to eat. The 22-year-old Larson fainted following an autograph session March 28, a day before the Martinsville race, and was held out of the event so doctors could run tests to rule out any serious health issues. The tests came out negative and has doctors theorizing that he fainted from dehydration. He is set to practice Friday and race Sunday in the Duck Commander 500 at Texas Motor Speedway. "That morning, I had tacos and chicken noodle soup," Larson said Thursday at TMS. "Later that night when I went to the hospital, I had pizza because that's all they had there. [Ganassi] says I need to lay off the pizza and tacos diet. ... My nutritionist Chip Ganassi is on me." Larson already has returned to the seat of the race car. He spent all day Wednesday testing a Sprint Cup car at Richmond International Raceway and then part of Thursday in a Legends car as part of a mentoring program for sponsor Axe. "I feel fine," Larson said. "I'm good. I'm staying hydrated. All is good. It was nice to get a day in before I got out here -- they ran all those tests -- just to make sure everything is good in the race car. It went fine. It went smooth. No problems at all."(ESPN.com)(4-10-2015)

Accell Construction returns to TBR: Heading into the Duck Commander 500 race weekend at Texas Motor Speedway, Tommy Baldwin Racing is welcoming back a long-time sponsor for the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup season. Accell Construction returns to serve as primary sponsor on the #7 Chey SS at Texas as well as both races at Kansas Motor Speedway. The Oklahoma-based company will continue its partnership with TBR for the fifth consecutive season. "We are proud of the relationship that our team has built with Steve and Accell Construction for the past five seasons," said team owner Tommy Baldwin. "For a small team like ours, this relationship is invaluable. It allows Accell Construction to have a presence in NASCAR and bring their company to a new market while it allows TBR to sustain resources to remain competitive."(TBR), see an image of the car on the #7 team paint schemes page.(4-10-2015)

Testing at Kentucky: Eight NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers and teams are scheduled to participate in the April 15 open test at Kentucky Speedway ahead of the track's Quaker State 400 in July. The open test will be preceded by a closed Goodyear tire test on April 13 and 14 with one team each from the following organizations: Chip Ganassi Racing, Michael Waltrip Racing, Richard Childress Racing and Roush Fenway Racing. On April 15, #16-Greg Biffle, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #20-Matt Kenseth, #22-Joey Logano, #1-Jamie McMurray, #10-Danica Patrick, #31-Ryan Newman and #9-Sam Hornish Jr. are scheduled to participate in the open test with April 16 serving as a rain date before the Sprint Cup Series heads to Bristol Motor Speedway next weekend.(NASCAR.com)(4-10-2015)

Texas Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Friday - drivers:
ˇ 140 drivers have competed in at least one NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Texas; 115 in more than one.
ˇ Jeff Gordon is the only driver to have made all 28 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series starts at Texas Motor Speedway.
ˇ 18 different drivers have won at Texas Motor Speedway, led by Jimmie Johnson with four victories.
ˇ Seven drivers have multiple wins at Texas Motor Speedway: Jimmie Johnson (four), Carl Edwards (three), Greg Biffle, Jeff Burton, Denny Hamlin, Matt Kenseth and Tony Stewart each have two.
ˇ Jimmie Johnson leads the series in runner-up finishes at Texas Motor Speedway with five; followed by Matt Kenseth with four and Jeff Gordon with three.
ˇ Matt Kenseth leads the series in top-five finishes at Texas Motor Speedway with 13; followed by Jimmie Johnson with 11, Jeff Gordon with nine and Greg Biffle with eight.
ˇ Matt Kenseth and Jimmie Johnson lead the series in top-10 finishes at Texas Motor Speedway with 17 each; followed by Dale Earnhardt Jr. with 14.
ˇ Jimmie Johnson leads all active drivers in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in average starting position at Texas Motor Speedway with an 8.5. Johnson is the only active driver with an average starting position at Texas in the top 10.
ˇ Two active drivers have a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series average finish in the top 10 at Texas: Matt Kenseth (8.9) and Jimmie Johnson (9.0).
ˇ Casey Mears has participated in the most NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Texas Motor Speedway without posting a DNF (21).
ˇ Jeff Burton (4/06/1997) and Dale Earnhardt Jr. (4/02/2000) won their first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career race at Texas Motor Speedway.
ˇ 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Brad Keselowski (11/02/2008) and Trevor Bayne (11/07/2010) made their first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career starts at Texas Motor Speedway.
ˇ Two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers have posted consecutive wins at Texas Motor Speedway: Carl Edwards (2008 sweep) and Denny Hamlin (2010 sweep). Jimmie Johnson has won the last three consecutive Chase races at Texas Motor Speedway (2012, 2013 and 2014).
ˇ 11 of the 12 active NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers who have won at Texas Motor Speedway participated in at least two or more races before visiting Victory Lane. Dale Earnhardt Jr. won at Texas in his first appearance; Carl Edwards and Ryan Newman won in their second appearance at TMS.
ˇ Jeff Gordon competed at Texas Motor Speedway 16 times before winning in the spring of 2009; the longest span of any the 12 active NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winners.
ˇ Only three of the 12 winning drivers have made 10 or more attempts before their first win at Texas Motor Speedway: Jeff Gordon (16) Kyle Busch (15) and Kurt Busch (13).
ˇ Kevin Harvick leads the series among active drivers with the most NASCAR Sprint Cup Series starts at Texas Motor Speedway without visiting Victory Lane at 23.
ˇ Two female drivers have made NSCS starts at Texas Motor Speedway: Shawna Robinson and Danica Patrick.
ˇ Jimmie Johnson leads the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in Laps Led at Texas Motor Speedway with 889 laps led in 23 starts.
ˇ Jeff Gordon leads all active NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers in Laps Completed at Texas Motor Speedway with 8,330 laps.
ˇ One NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver has won at Texas Motor Speedway in two different manufacturers: Jeff Burton (1997 - Ford; 2007 - Chevrolet) (NASCAR)(4-10-2015)

Jones wins XFINITY race at Texas: #20-Erik Jones won the O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 at Texas Motor Speedway. It is his first XFINITY Series win in just his 9th start. #22-Brad Keselowski finished second, followed by #88-Dale Earnhardt, Jr., #7-Regan Smith, #33-Austin Dillon, #6-Darrell Wallace, Jr., #54-Denny Hamlin, #9-Chase Elliott, #60-Chris Buescher, and #2-Brian Scott.
There were 6 cautions for 30 laps and 15 lead changes among 8 leaders. Complete results are on the Texas race results page (pdf).
(4-10-2015)

Texas XFINITY Race Fast Facts:
Erik Jones won the 19th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts 300, his first victory in nine NASCAR XFINITY Series races.
At 18 years, 10 months, 11 days, Jones is the second youngest winner at Texas (Chase Elliott).
A NASCAR Next graduate, this is Jones' fifth NASCAR national series win. He also has four wins in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.
Brad Keselowski (second) posted his 11th top-10 finish in 15 races at Texas Motor Speedway. It is his third top-10 finish in 2015.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. (third) posted his sixth top-10 finish in eight races at Texas Motor Speedway.
Darrell Wallace Jr. (sixth) was the highest finishing rookie.
Ty Dillon leads the point standings by 2 points over Chris Buescher.
(NASCAR Integrated Marketing)(4-10-2015)

XFINITY Driver standings following Texas:
1) #3-Ty Dillon 219
2) #60-Chris Buescher 217, -2
3) #9-Chase Elliott 208, -11
4) #6-Darrell Wallace Jr. 204, -15
5) #16-Ryan Reed 197, -22
6) #7-Regan Smith 197, -22
7) #1-Elliott Sadler 181, -38
8) #62-Brendan Gaughan 176, -43
9) #2-Brian Scott 169, -50
10) #18-Daniel Suarez 160, -59
See complete owner and driver standings on the driver standings(pdf) and owner standings page (pdf).(4-10-2015)

Erik Jones on XFINITY pole at Texas: #20-Erik Jones won the pole for the O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 at Texas Motor Speedway with a speed of 185.166mph. #22-Brad Keselowski will start second. The rest of the top 10: #33-Austin Dillon, #18-Daniel Suarez, #88-Dale Earnhardt, Jr., #7-Regan Smith, #2-Brian Scott, #6-Darrell Wallace, Jr., #9-Chase Elliott, and #60-Chris Buescher. Did Not Qualify: none. The starting lineup is posted on the Texas starting lineup page (pdf).(4-10-2015)

Texas XFINITY Qualifying Notes:
Erik Jones won the Coors Light Pole Award for the 19th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 with a lap of 29.163 seconds, 185.166 mph.
This is his second pole in nine NASCAR XFINITY Series races. He also won the pole at Auto Club Speedway.
This is his second pole and fifth top-10 start in 2015.
This is his first pole in one races at Texas Motor Speedway.
Brad Keselowski (second) posted his second top-10 start of 2015 and his eighth in 15 races at Texas Motor Speedway.
Austin Dillon (third) posted his sixth top-10 start at Texas Motor Speedway. It is his fifth in five races this season.
Daniel Suarez (fourth) was the fastest qualifying rookie.
(NASCAR Integrated Marketing)(4-10-2015)

Dukes of Hazzard stars host pre-race concert at Bristol: Autotrader will bring Tom Wopat and John Schneider, stars of the new Autotrader TV commercials and the hit TV series The Dukes of Hazard to Bristol Motor Speedway as hosts of the Autotrader Pre-Race Concert. Two-time Grammy winners Old Crow Medicine Show will headline the Autotrader Pre-Race Concert for the Food City 500, Sunday, April 19. Guests at the Food City 500 will be entertained by the group some call the greatest string band in the world with punk-rock swagger and an old school country sound. The talented artists that are best known for "Wagon Wheel" will perform a 30-minute must-see show. Prior to the Autotrader Pre-Race Concert, hosts Tom Wopat and John Schneider will make an appearance from 9:30 - 10:15a at the Autotrader display in the Fan Zone on the Speedway grounds. The stars of The Dukes of Hazzard will also cheer on Joey Logano in the Team Penske #22 Autotrader Ford Fusion. Autotrader unveiled a special paint scheme showcasing their new logo on the #22 for the Food City 500.(BMS)(4-10-2015)

Earnhardt, Jr., Elliott to appear at Track Takeover in Richmond: When you hear the names Earnhardt and Elliott many things come to mind. Generations of history, countless wins, and intense battles are just to name a few. These names have become part of NASCAR, and fans across the sport have grown to love them. But, you want to know more about them, don't you? Well, Richmond International Raceway is offering you the chance. Both Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Chase Elliott will be doing Q&A's on the main stage at Track Takeover powered by Nationwide. All Saturday, April 25 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race ticket holders are invited to attend Track Takeover powered by Nationwide, where you can put your feet on the pavement just hours prior to NASCAR's best battling it out in the TOYOTA OWNERS 400. Two legendary last names in NASCAR on one stage answering questions that we all want to know. What's better than that? Add a rising legend in the country music scene to the list, that's what. Eric Lee Beddingfield will make his RIR debut, taking the stage at Track Takeover powered by Nationwide to entertain fans.(RIR)(4-10-2015)

#31 team appeal to be heard April 16 UPDATE: David Higdon, Vice President, Integrated Marketing Communications for NASCAR tweeted Tuesday afternoon that the "National Motorsports Appeals Panel will hear RCR appeal of #31 team P5 penalty on April 16. Fine, suspensions deferred until then."(4-7-2015)
UPDATE: Statement from Richard Childress, "Our appeal is scheduled for Thursday, April 16. We feel confident we have a very compelling case to present to the appeals panel. We strongly believe in the intent of the rules and the integrity of our own teams while following those same rules. Out of respect for the appeal process, we will have no further comments until after the hearing."(RCR)(4-9-2015)

Testing at Richmond on Tuesday & Wednesday UPDATE: Ever seen a movie preview that made you want to go see the main feature? Are you staying in town and wondering what to do during Spring Break? Richmond International Raceway has just the thing. We want you to join us as we preview some of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series' biggest names on Wednesday, April 8 when they take to the track to prepare for the main feature, the Saturday, April 25 TOYOTA OWNERS 400. Check the full guest list: #24-Jeff Gordon, #14-Tony Stewart, #2-Brad Keselowski, #15-Clint Bowyer, #42-Kyle Larson, #11-Denny Hamlin, #3-Austin Dillon, #6-Trevor Bayne, #43-Aric Almirola, #13-Casey Mears, #78-Martin Truex Jr, and #47-AJ Allmendinger. Fans are invited to attend testing on Wednesday, April 8 from 10:00am-5:00pm. Sit in the grandstands and enjoy a sneak peek of what's to come in a few short weeks. To access the grandstands, enter through the Main Gate on the corner of Laburnum Avenue and Richmond-Henrico Turnpike. Once in the gate, park near the Virginia is For Lovers Frontstretch Gate and Gate 70, located in Turn 4. Fans can enter the grandstands through Gate 70 only.(RIR) Teams will also test on Tuesday, but the track is close to the public then.(4-7-2014)
UPDATE: The engineers and mechanics who hunched over an array of computers plied their trade with typical high-tech flair during Wednesday's open NASCAR test at Richmond International Raceway, analyzing data feeds and crunching numbers while their drivers made the rounds. The seven-hour session, which started 2 1/2 hours late because of early morning rain, came on the heels of Tuesday's rain-delayed Goodyear tire test here, where teams confirmed the rubber that will be used in the springtime 400-lapper. But in addition to making tires work, teams used the extra time to try different setups that may pay dividends in a little over two weeks. Thirteen drivers added the Richmond detour before heading to this weekend's racing at Texas Motor Speedway, driving cars equipped with ride-height sensors and pitot tubes to measure wind velocity. Additionally, three "wheel-force" cars -- one for each manufacturer and marked with a "W" beside their number on the scoring sheet -- also made the trip, each outfitted with a complex sensor attached to each wheel to measure load on the tires. The information from those three cars -- with Team Penske representing Ford, JTG-Daugherty Racing for Chevrolet, and Joe Gibbs Racing for Toyota -- would be shared within each manufacturer network. Tuesday at Richmond, teams tested tires for nearly four hours after steady showers pushed back the on-track schedule. Goodyear will employ zone-tread technology -- using two different rubber compounds, one for improved endurance and one for enhanced traction, in a single tread -- on its right-side tires. The left-side tire compound will remain the same as the one teams raced on last September.(NASCAR.com)(4-9-2015)

Texas Tech on the #32 at Texas: Vic Keller, a 1996 graduate from the Texas Tech University Rawls College of Business, has donated sponsorship of a Sprint Cup car to Texas Tech. The car for Go Green Racing will attempt to qualify for Duck Commander 500 Friday, April 10, and Saturday, April 11, at The Duck Commander 500 at Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth. Keller is the owner of ZAK Products, which is the No. 1 professional maintenance fluid of NASCAR. He has donated sponsorship of a Sprint Cup car to Texas Tech for this weekend's race at Texas Motor Speedway. The #32 car, driven by Mike Bliss of Go Green Racing, will be adorned in Texas Tech colors and logos.(Lubbock Online), see an image of the car on the #32 team paint schemes page.(4-9-2015)

AXE White Label debuts at Texas with Kyle Larson: Kyle Larson looks to stay cool and confident at Texas Motor Speedway with Target partner AXE as the primary sponsor on the #42 Chevy SS. The paint scheme will highlight the new AXE White Label grooming line and the AXE White Label Collective, a mentorship program designed to give people the coaching and opportunities needed to "take the leap" and turn aspiration into action. As part of the relationship with Target Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates, Larson will mentor several racing fans, both at Texas Motor Speedway and closer to the team's home base in Concord, N.C. This is not Larson's first involvement outside of the race car with AXE. As last season started, Larson was featured in a national commercial for the AXE Peace line, which also served as the primary partner on Larson's #42 Chevy during NASCAR's first stop at Richmond International Raceway last year.(Chip Ganassi Racing), see an image of the car on the #42 team paint schemes page.(4-9-2015)

Texas Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Thursday - poles:
ˇ Qualifying has been cancelled due to weather conditions twice in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Texas Motor Speedway; the inaugural event in 1997 and the spring race of 2007. The actual race has never been rain shortened, but was postponed to Monday last season due to weather.
ˇ The third-place starting position is the most proficient starting spot in the field at Texas Motor Speedway, producing more wins than any other starting position (six) - most recent: Jimmie Johnson (fall of 2014).
ˇ Six of the 28 (21.4%) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Texas Motor Speedway have been won from the front row: three from the pole and three from second-place.
ˇ David Ragan (4/09/2011) and Martin Truex Jr. (11/04/2007) posted their first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coors Light poles at Texas Motor Speedway.
ˇ Jeremy Mayfield was the first Coors Light pole winner, in 1998 with a speed of 185.906 mph. The inaugural Coors Light pole at Texas Motor Speedway in 1997 was cancelled due to weather conditions.
ˇ Twenty drivers have Coors Light poles at Texas, led by Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, Ryan Newman, Tony Stewart, Bobby Labonte and Martin Truex Jr. with two each.
ˇ Two drivers have won consecutive Coors Light poles at Texas Motor Speedway: Bobby Labonte (2003 and 2004) and Ryan Newman (2005 sweep).
(NASCAR)(4-9-2015)

Chassis selections for this weeks race: see the list of many teams [that report or post them] and what chassis were selected by the team to run in the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway on the Texas Race Info page - Chassis selection area.

Austin Dillon fastest in XFINITY happy hour: #33-Austin Dillon was quickest during happy hour for the O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 with a speed of 181.372mph. He was followed by: #7-Regan Smith, #6-Darrell Wallace, Jr., #22-Brad Keselowski, #1-Elliott Sadler, #20-Erik Jones, #62-Brendan Gaughan, #9-Chase Elliott, #18-Daniel Suarez, and #28-J.J. Yeley. All 40 drivers participated in the session. See complete results on the Texas practice 2 speeds page (pdf).(4-9-2014)

Austin Dillon fastest in first XFINITY practice: #33-Austin Dillon was fastest during opening practice at Texas Motor Speedway with a speed of 182.883mph. #98-Sam Hornish, Jr. was second, followed by: #1-Elliott Sadler, #3-Ty Dillon, #20-Erik Jones, #54-Denny Hamlin, #88-Dale Earnhardt, Jr., #2-Brian Scott, #9-Chase Elliott, and #7-Regan Smith. 38 drivers practiced during the session. See complete results on the Texas practice 1 speeds page (pdf).(4-9-2014)

Crescent Services sponsoring Clements at Texas: Jeremy Clements Racing announced that Crescent Services will return as primary sponsor for the #51 Chevy Camaro SS at Texas Motor Speedway this weekend for the NASCAR XFINITY Series O"Reilly's Auto Parts 300 along with new associate sponsor Top Notch Energy Services. Crescent Services based in Oklahoma City, OK was founded in 2006 is a diversified independent oilfield service company and has locations in Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wyoming. Crescent Services covers the life cycle of a well, from location construction through production. Crescent breaks down their service lines into two primary segments: Water Management and Environmental Services. Top Notch Energy Services based in Corpus Christi, TX is one of the strongest independent thru-tubbing fishing and milling companies in the Oil Industry. Top Notch has flourished through the Oil and Gas industry by building and maintaining long lasting relationships with their customers with 100% commitment. In addition Jeremy will carry the ALS Association South Carolina Chapter (ALSASC) logo on the #51 as part of Jeremy's partnership with http://websc.alsa.org/ for the 2015 season. Jeremy Clements is currently 13th in driver points standings and this will mark Jeremy's 13th career start at Texas Motor Speedway.(Clements Racing)(4-9-2015)

New look for Armstrong in Texas: Dakoda Armstrong and the #43 team will visit the third different 1.5-mile track of the 2015 season this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. The team looks to rebound strong after engine problems cut their efforts short in California. The Fort Worth track treated the team well last year, with Dakoda piloting the #43 Ford Mustang to a solid 10th-place finish in the fall. Currently, Armstrong sits 15th in the XFINITY Series Championship Point Standings. He has two prior starts at TMS in the NASCAR XFINITY Series. The team welcomes new sponsor Purina Animal Nutrition to the NASCAR XFINITY Series. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the United States.(RPM), see an image of the car on the #43 team paint schemes page.(4-9-2015)

Cope picks up Texas sponsors: #70-Derrike Cope Racing partners with Nature Nate's Honey and Zilla Wraps for the O'Reilly 300 at the Texas Motor Speedway. Both of these companies are headquartered in Texas. Nature Nate's produces 100% Pure, Raw and Unfiltered Honey, just the way nature intended. Zilla Wraps, located in Dallas-Fort Worth is a local business that specializes in designing and installing car wraps and graphics.(Derrike Cope Racing)(4-9-2015)

New permanent high-def video boards at Talladega: The fan experience at Talladega Superspeedway just got bigger and better for the upcoming GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300 weekend, May 1-3. Some of the Sprint Vision Digital High-Definition Video Screens that line the frontstretch, giving those in attendance a spectacular view, have increased in size while some will be permanent structures at NASCAR's Most Competitive track. The large video boards, which were introduced at Talladega a year ago as part of an International Speedway Corporation (ISC) initiative (multi-phase plans are to implement video boards at other ISC facilities over the next few years), will showcase pictures that will be bigger, brighter, crisper and clearer. In addition to the five screens on the frontstretch, a video screen will be placed along the Alabama Gang Superstretch. Two of the video boards will now be mammoth 40' x 80' in size and will have permanent homes behind pit road in the tri-oval area - one atop Gatorade Victory Lane and one in front of the Media Center. The other permanent structure will be a 26' x 52' video board which will be located at the exit of Turn Four near the Care Center. Other locations include the Start/Finish Line (26'x '52) and Turn One (18' x 33'), along with the Alabama Gang Supersptretch (20' x 27'). Both the 40' x 80' video screens have 5,120,000,00 LED Pixels (X7mm HD) and are 28,000 pounds each while the 26'x52' structures have 1,263,600,00 LED Pixels (X10mm HD) and are 16,000 pounds each.(TSS)(4-9-2015)

My Martinsville Party will return for the fall: The first My Martinsville Party at Martinsville Speedway was such a success the track is bringing it back in the fall as part of the Goody's Headache Relief Shot 500 race weekend. Any fan that purchases Goody's Headache Relief Shot 500 race tickets by April 10 will automatically be enrolled in the members-only My Martinsville program. The inaugural My Martinsville party, which followed the Kroger 250 on Saturday night of the STP 500 weekend, was one of the many benefits of being a member of the speedway's exclusive members-only My Martinsville. Special guests included Rusty Wallace, Brad Keselowski, Kroger 250 race winner Joey Logano, Tyler Reddick, Miss Sprint and Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell. There was also live music, free snacks and plenty of giveaways. The second My Martinsville with a similar lineup of guests, events and food is scheduled to follow the Kroger 200 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on October 31. In addition to the My Martinsville party, members get to enter the track through members-only gates, get a hard-card and lanyard and receive the best prices on race tickets.(Martinsville Speedway)(4-9-2015)

Steve Byrnes hospitalized: Fox Sports' Steve Byrnes, who has been on leave from the network while battling Stage 4 head-and-neck cancer, is currently hospitalized. Byrnes tweeted Wednesday morning,"I am in ICU with pneumonia and a Pulmonary Embolism (blood clot) in my lung. Kind of a perfect storm on top of cancer. Thanks for prayers."(4-8-2015)

Ernie Elliott's wife charged with aggravated assault UPDATE: The wife of famed NASCAR engine builder Ernie Elliott was arrested early Tuesday morning. Sheila G. Elliott, 63, was charged with felony aggravated assault in connection with an incident that occurred on March 18 at the family's racing compound on Elliott Family Parkway. According to the arrest warrant, the suspect over revved the engine of her 2004 Mercedes Benz sedan and attempted to run her husband over with the vehicle, forcing him to climb "underneath a trailer for safety." He was not injured during the incident, which was reported to local authorities on March 24, the same day a warrant was secured for Sheila Elliott's arrest. Officers attempted to make an arrest that day, but were not able to do so due to a health concern. "Cpl. Ethan Taffar investigated and was about to take her into custody for aggravated assault under family violence when a medical condition arose, which had to be dealt with at that particular moment," said Capt. Tony Wooten, sheriff's spokesman. The nature of the argument that led to the alleged assault on March 18 was not publically revealed. Revered as one of NASCAR's top engine builders, Ernie Elliott helped power brother Bill Elliott to numerous victories over the family's 20-year collaboration, including his 1988 championship. He also built the engine that holds NASCAR's Sprint Cup qualifying record. His engines have 39 wins, 148 top five's, 291 top 10's and 51 poles. As of Tuesday afternoon, she remained in police custody without bond. A hearing before a judge is set for today.(Dawson News)(4-1-2015)
UPDATE: The wife of famed NASCAR engine builder Ernie Elliott remained in custody Tuesday, nearly a week after she was arrested for reportedly trying to run him over. Magistrate Judge Tony Tarnacki set Sheila G. Elliott's bond at $10,000 during her first appearance hearing on April 1. The 63-year-old Dawsonville woman may have no contact with her husband, according to the conditions of bond. Court records show that she also is required to stay away from business property on Elliott Family Parkway, where the alleged incident occurred.A preliminary hearing in Magistrate Court is set for April 29.(Dawson News)(4-8-2015)

NASCAR announces All-Star Race format: Showcasing the sport's top talent, NASCAR announced changes for the 2015 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race that will elevate the excitement of this annual classic. Race coverage is set for 7:00pm/et, Saturday, May 16 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The field will include race winners from the 2014 and 2015 seasons, as well as all former NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race winners and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champions who are full-time competitors - all of whom will compete for the $1 million prize awarded to the winner. Prior to this change, former NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race winners and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champions were eligible only if they accomplished the feat within the previous 10 seasons.
In addition, the five-segment race will increase by a total of 20 laps, with the first four segments each scheduled for 25 laps as compared to 20 in recent years. With the final 10-lap shootout, the race now totals 110 laps.
The 2015 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race will have a minimum field of 20 drivers. There are currently 17 drivers eligible, with three additional spots available. Two of those are reserved for the segment winners from the two 20-lap Sprint Showdown segments beginning at 7:00pm/et, Friday, May 15 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
The final spot belongs to the Sprint Fan Vote winner; voting at www.NASCAR.com/sprintfanvote and the NASCAR MOBILE application closes at 7:00pm/et on May 15. The winner of the Sprint Fan Vote will be announced in Victory Lane following the conclusion of the Sprint Showdown.
Drivers in the 2015 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race will compete in cars that conform to all 2015 rules. The race format will consist of a total of five segments: four 25-lap segments, with the average finish of the first four segments determining the order cars will enter pit road for a mandatory four-tire pit stop following the fourth segment. Running order ties will be broken by the finish of the fourth segment. The order of the cars returning to the track following the mandatory pit stop determines the starting order for a final winner-take-all 10-lap segment.
All laps will count in segments one through four. In the fifth and final segment, only green flag laps will be counted. There will be optional pit stops during the breaks following each of the first three segments, with the field set by the pit stop/stay out positioning during the five caution laps.
The following drivers are eligible to compete in the 2015 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race: #47-AJ Allmendinger, #43-Aric Almirola, #41-Kurt Busch, #18-Kyle Busch, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #19-Carl Edwards, #24-Jeff Gordon, #11-Denny Hamlin, #4-Kevin Harvick, #48-Jimmie Johnson, #5-Kasey Kahne, #20-Matt Kenseth (2004 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race winner), #2-Brad Keselowski, #22-Joey Logano, #1-Jamie McMurray (2014 winner), #31-Ryan Newman (2002 winner), #14-Tony Stewart (2009 winner).(NASCAR)(4-8-2015)

Teams will get quicker access to video of pit road violations: Beginning with this weekend's race at Texas, all Sprint Cup teams will be provided adequate bandwidth to allow videos detailing pit road infractions to be sent directly to the appropriate pit box. In late May, when the series moves to Charlotte Motor Speedway, similar connectivity will also be provided in each garage bay. Video showing an infraction is currently sent to the team in question - typically to their haulers where they have adequate bandwidth to handle video - almost as soon as it is received and processed by officials in the PRO trailer. Some teams have the capability and bandwidth to forward it along to their pit box, where the crew chief and any others may view it as well. Now, when a team commits and infraction, video evidence will be delivered to the crew chief on the pit box almost as soon as it occurs. (NASCAR.com)(4-8-2015)

TaxAct returns to sponsor Patrick at Texas: Despite being a marketing phenom whose myriad endorsement deals easily will outlast her racing career, Danica Patrick likes reminding people that success can drive her sponsorship portfolio, too. She will be sporting a colorful and prominent reminder this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. Patrick revealed that TaxAct had bought the hood of her #10 Chevy after sponsoring her in the March 29 race at Martinsville Speedway, where she finished a season-best seventh. "It was definitely a last-second thing that they were really happy about from Martinsville," the Stewart-Haas Racing driver said Tuesday afternoon at Charlotte Motor Speedway. "I've always said when I do well, things happen. That's an example of that. If I never, ever had good weekends, I wouldn't be where I am today. Of course, I'd like to have them more than I do, but when I do, it's a good perk with everything from media to the sponsors." Patrick is off to her best start in Sprint Cup this season, which marks a critical juncture. It's a contract year for her and primary sponsor GoDaddy, which recently went public April 1 with Patrick helping ring in the occasion on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.(NBC Sports)(4-8-2015)

Knock'er Loose to debut on the #40: CRC Industries, Inc., the worldwide leader in the production of specialty chemicals for the maintenance and repair professional, serving industrial, electrical, aviation, automotive & marine markets, will debut a new industrial-themed paint scheme on the #40 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car of Hillman Racing with driver Landon Cassill this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. Cassill will pilot the #40 CRC KNOCK'ER LOOSE Chevy SS - the first of two races for CRC Industrial this season - in Saturday night's Duck Commander 500. CRC Knock'er Loose Penetrating Solvent is specially formulated to dissolve rust, gum, grease and corrosion to allow quick removal of nuts, bolt, pins, screws, bushings, hinges and lugs. In addition to this weekend's race in Texas, CRC Knock'er Loose returns as the primary sponsor of Cassill and the #40 Hillman Racing Chevy at Chicagoland Speedway on September 20.(Hillman Racing), see an image of the car on the #40 team paint schemes page.(4-8-2015)

"Flipping Ships" sponsoring Allgaier: Justin Allgaier will drive the #51 Flipping Ships Chevy this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. Flipping Ships is a TV series based around singer Edwin McCain and his Boats Have Souls business and is set to premier on Friday, April 24 at 10:00pm/et on Animal Planet. In the six-part series, Edwin takes abandoned boats and restores them for charity and clients. The first episode features Edwin's friend and fellow singer, Darius Rucker, as they team up to restore a boat for the Medical University of South Carolina Children's Hospital charity auction.(HScott Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #51 team paint schemes page.(4-8-2015)

Northland Oil debuts on the #46: Michael Annett's #46 will be adorned at Texas by the logo and livery of Northland, a longtime Annett partner. Saturday's race marks the first time Northland will act as a primary partner in the Sprint Cup Series. Northland Products Company, headquartered in Waterloo, Iowa, formulates, manufactures, markets and distributes premium quality engine oil, lubricants, engine coolants and associated fluids throughout North America.(HScott Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #46 team paint schemes page.(4-8-2015)

Top 10 Driver Ratings at Texas Motor Speedway:
#20-Matt Kenseth 105.9
#48-Jimmie Johnson 105.7
#18-Kyle Busch 101.3
#16-Greg Biffle 100.9
#14-Tony Stewart 98.3
#99-Carl Edwards 95.9
#11-Denny Hamlin 93.5
#24-Jeff Gordon 93.2
#15-Clint Bowyer 91.4
#88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. 91.1
Note: Driver Ratings compiled from 2005-2014 races (20 total) among active drivers at Texas Motor Speedway. Formula combining the following categories: Win, Finish, Top-15 Finish, Average Running Position while on Lead Lap, Average Speed Under Green, Fastest Lap, Led Most Laps, Lead-Lap Finish. Maximum: 150 points per race.<
See an explanation how the Driver Rating is calculated at NASCAR.com.(NASCAR)

Texas Goodyear Tire Notes: Teams in both the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Xfinity Series will run the same tire set-up at Texas this week . . . this is the same combination of left- and right-side tires that these teams ran twice at Texas last season . . . this left-side tire code (D-4392) has been run by NASCAR teams at Texas since 2011 . . . this right-side tire code (D-4618) was introduced at this track last April . . . this right-side tire employs Goodyear's multi-zone tread technology, which combines two distinct tread compounds on the same tire -- the outside 10 inches of the tread features a compound that is designed for grip, while the inside two inches of the tread is toughened to enhance durability on the part of the tire sees the most heat and takes the most abuse . . . as on all NASCAR ovals greater than one mile in length, teams are required to run inner liners in all four tire positions at Texas . . . air pressure in those inner liners should be 12-25 psi greater than that of the outer tire..(Goodyear). See tire codes, pressures and more on the Texas Race Info - Goodyear section.

Texas Motor Speedway Notes & Facts - Wednesday - history:
ˇ Construction on Texas Motor Speedway began in 1995.
ˇ The first NASCAR national series race at TMS was a NASCAR Nationwide Series event on April 5, 1997 - won by Mark Martin.
ˇ The first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race was on April 6, 1997 - won by Jeff Burton.
ˇ The track underwent a repave between the 2001 and 2002 seasons.
ˇ In 2011, the spring NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race was moved from Sunday to Saturday night under the lights at Texas Motor Speedway.
ˇ Texas Motor Speedway hosted its first Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on November 6, 2005 - won by Carl Edwards.
ˇ There have been 28 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Texas Motor Speedway, one NSCS event from 1997 - 2004 and two races per year since 2005.
(NASCAR)(4-8-2015)

New look for Conley at Texas: TriStar Motorsports and the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) revealed a new paint scheme on the #14 Toyota Camry beginning this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. Founded in 2004 by an Iraq veteran, IAVA's mission is to connect, unite and empower post-9/11 veterans. IAVA has become the leading post-9/11 veteran empowerment organization (VEO) with the most diverse and rapidly growing membership in America. Celebrating its 10th year anniversary, IAVA has repeatedly received the highest rating - four-stars - from Charity Navigator, America's largest charity evaluator. Conley expanded his relationship with IAVA beginning at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and is taking it to the next level with the paint scheme upgrade. Conley's Camry will run the green and yellow of IAVA indefinitely this season. As an avid supporter of current and former military, Conley is especially excited to represent them on Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, participating in veteran events and hosting veterans at the track.(TriStar Motorsports), see an image of the car on the #14 team paint scheme page.(4-8-2015)

Advocare sponsoring Wallace at Texas: This weekend at Texas Motor Speedway marks a double-feature for Roush Fenway Racing and primary sponsor AdvoCare. AdvoCare, the sponsor of the #6 Ford Fusion for driver Trevor Bayne in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, will also adorn the hood of the #6 Ford Mustang in the NASCAR XFINITY Series for driver Bubba Wallace. AdvoCare is headquartered in Plano Texas, which is roughly 45 minutes from the Texas Motor Speedway.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the car on the #6 team paint schemes page.(4-8-2015)

ZZ Top to perform pre-race concert at Charlotte: ZZ Top, who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, will bring their iconic tunes, trademark beards and dark sunglasses to Charlotte Motor Speedway for what promises to be an energetic pre-race concert to get fans revved up before the green flag falls on the Coca-Cola 600, Sunday, May 24. The concert was announced by Coca-Cola Racing Family driver Danica Patrick and Marcus Smith, president and general manager at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Tuesday. Patrick, who said she grew up listening to ZZ Top, drove the "Little Ol' Band From Texas" into a press event in a vintage Chevrolet Bel Air as the band's classic "Sharp Dressed Man" played. Comprised of the same three members who formed the band in 1969 - Billy F. Gibbons (guitar), Dusty Hill (bass) and Frank Beard (drums) - ZZ Top will perform a 45-minute set in the infield of the legendary 1.5-mile superspeedway just hours before NASCAR's best are scheduled to take the track for the ultimate test of man and machine. The concert is free for all Coca-Cola 600 race ticket holders. (CMS)(4-8-2015)

Daytona Rising April Project Update: During the recent weeks, Daytona International Speedway continued demolition of the Sprint Tower as part of the $400 million DAYTONA Rising redevelopment project. Using a 490-foot Manitowoc 2250 Crawler Crane, the Speedway has already completed the removal of the Tower's iconic front façade that featured "DAYTONA." The Speedway will continue the 30-day demolition process with two additional phases. The next phases will involve the removal of elevated walkways and concessions between the Tower and the Speedway followed by general demolition of the Campbell Suites. Additional upcoming construction activities include: Ongoing elevator installation, Continuing miscellaneous framing and concrete installation, and Developing hospitality suites.(DIS)(4-8-2015)

#31 team appeal to be heard April 16: David Higdon, Vice President, Integrated Marketing Communications for NASCAR tweeted Tuesday afternoon that the "National Motorsports Appeals Panel will hear RCR appeal of #31 team P5 penalty on April 16. Fine, suspensions deferred until then." For more information on the penalty, see the #31 team news page.(4-7-2015)

Joey Gase to drive #32 at Richmond: Go FAS Racing announces that 22 year old, Iowa Native, Joey Gase will make his NASCAR Sprint Cup Series debut for the 2015 season at Richmond International Raceway in the #32 Donate Life Virginia/Corvetteparts.net Ford. Gase made four starts last year for Go FAS Racing in the Cup series with a best finish of 33rd at Phoenix International Raceway. "Donate Life Virginia will be teaming up with us not only in the NASCAR Xfinity Series here in Richmond, but also in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. This will be the first time we have ever had Donate Life on the car for both series in the same weekend," Gase said. "April is national 'Donate Life' month and to end Donate Life month strong and to really push the awareness for donation to the next level is very important to me. I am also glad we get to honor Sara Peterson on the car. She was an organ, eye, and tissue donor and helped save and improve the lives of many."(Joey Gase PR)(4-7-2015)

Testing at Richmond on Tuesday & Wednesday: Ever seen a movie preview that made you want to go see the main feature? Are you staying in town and wondering what to do during Spring Break? Richmond International Raceway has just the thing. We want you to join us as we preview some of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series' biggest names on Wednesday, April 8 when they take to the track to prepare for the main feature, the Saturday, April 25 TOYOTA OWNERS 400. Check the full guest list: #24-Jeff Gordon, #14-Tony Stewart, #2-Brad Keselowski, #15-Clint Bowyer, #42-Kyle Larson, #11-Denny Hamlin, #3-Austin Dillon, #6-Trevor Bayne, #43-Aric Almirola, #13-Casey Mears, #78-Martin Truex Jr, and #47-AJ Allmendinger. Fans are invited to attend testing on Wednesday, April 8 from 10:00am-5:00pm. Sit in the grandstands and enjoy a sneak peek of what's to come in a few short weeks. To access the grandstands, enter through the Main Gate on the corner of Laburnum Avenue and Richmond-Henrico Turnpike. Once in the gate, park near the Virginia is For Lovers Frontstretch Gate and Gate 70, located in Turn 4. Fans can enter the grandstands through Gate 70 only.(RIR) Teams will also test on Tuesday, but the track is close to the public then.(4-7-2014)

Pit Crew penalties through six races: So far this year there have been 45 penalties called on pit crews that are directly a result of bad pitting. [Pit Talks] took out all the penalties that didn't involve the pit crews but are still issued. What we wanted to see was how the pit crews were doing and what penalties were being called the most. Here is what we found: The most called penalty is the TIRE NOT IN CONTROL OUTSIDE HALF OF BOX, it has been called 23 times resulting in 51% of the penalties on pit crews. The second most penalized called is OVER THE WALL TO SOON, it has been called 16 times resulting in 35% of the penalties. The last three penalties are as follows: TOSSING FUEL CANS 3 times at 7%, ROLLING TIRES BEYOND CENTER LINE 2 times at 5%, and last is EQUIPMENT OUTSIDE OF THE BOX 1 resulting in 2%.(PitTalks)(4-7-2015)

New look for Burton: #26-Jeb Burton will drive a red #26 Toyota sponsored by Maxim Fantasy Sports at Texas Motor Speedway. The team has been runing a white scheme when sponsored by Maxim. See an image of the car on the #26 team paint schemes page.(4-7-2015)

Safety-Kleen sponsoring Buescher at Texas: Chris Buescher makes his fourth NASCAR XFINITY Series start at Texas Motor Speedway on Friday. In his previous three starts, Buescher's best finish is 13th, which came last fall. The #60 Ford Mustang carries the Safety-Kleen colors this weekend in Texas. Safety-Kleen is a leading provider of environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Safety-Kleen is the largest re-refiner of used oil and provider of parts cleaning services in North America.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the car on the #60 team paint schemes page.(4-7-2015)

350th start for Bliss: Now that two off weekends are in the rear-view, Mike Bliss plans to put another "notch" in his NASCAR belt. Over the past 20-years Bliss has racked up 725 starts across NASCAR's three premier series'. Earning one Championship, 15 wins, 91 top-five, 192 top-10 finishes, the driver coined "the Hammer" has seen it all. This weekend's event, the O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 at Texas Motor Speedway, will turn another milestone for Bliss. The NASCAR XFINITY Series event will mark start number 350 for Bliss in the series. He has 19 previous starts; 40 overall, at the 1.5-mile speedway. Earning two pole awards, two top-five and seven top-10 career finishes at Texas; Bliss knows a thing or two about the superspeedway.(TriStar Motorsports)(4-7-2015)

Wix sponsoring Gaughan at Texas: WIX Filters returns as primary sponsor on the #62 Chevy Camaro this weekend in the XFINITY Series O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 at Texas Motor Speedway. WIX Filters was last onboard the #62 at Auto Club Speedway in 2014. Since 1939, WIX Filters has been an innovator in filtration products. WIX designs, manufactures and distributes products for automotive, diesel, agricultural, industrial and specialty filter markets.(RCR)(4-7-2015)

Hawg Heaven Queso Wing to debut at Texas: Texas Motor Speedway and Levy Restaurants are bringing home the bacon once again to its fans. The next generation of the highly successful Hawg Heaven line - the Hawg Heaven Queso Wing - will make its debut at the Duck Commander 500 NASCAR doubleheader weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. The Hawg Heaven Queso Wing is an oversized chicken drummette that is French cut, doused in a bacon queso sauce and then topped with a mixture of crumbled Doritos and bacon bits. An order includes four wings, which is just under one pound of chicken. The item will sell for $12 and only be available at the concession stand on the concourse inside the Gate 4 main grandstand entrance. The Hawg Heaven concession line began in 2013 with the Hawg Heaven Bacon Cotton Candy and has featured the Shake 'n Bacon Brew bacon-infused beer milkshake and most recently Hawg Heaven Bacon Nachos. The bacon-infused nachos also will be available during the Duck Commander 500 race weekend.(TMS)(4-7-2015)

Bill Goldberg to emcee Bristol driver intros: Bristol Motor Speedway announced fan-favorite Bill Goldberg will serve as the pre-race host for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Food City 500, April 19. The legendary pro-wrestler, former NFL football player, TV host and automobile aficionado will emcee Bristol's unique driver introductions. Bristol Motor Speedway is a venue like no other and each year the stars of NASCAR march to their own beat into the Last Great Colosseum. Driver's select a song that is played as they are introduced during pre-race ceremonies. The tradition has become one of the most popular driver introductions on the circuit.(BMS)(4-7-2015)

Special Stanley scheme at Texas for Edwards: The "Racing for a Miracle" program created by Stanley, the Ace Hardware Foundation, and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, is a multi-faceted program that benefits sick and injured children by raising funds for the hospitals that provide their care. Since the inception of this partnership, Stanley and the Ace Hardware Foundation have donated more than half a million dollars to the program. This year, Carl Edwards and the #19 Stanley race team head to Texas Motor Speedway, where they will have a million reasons to find a way to win. Stanley and the Ace Hardware Foundation will once again pledge $100,000 to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. And, should Carl Edwards win the race in Texas on Saturday, April 11th, Stanley will donate $1,000,000 through the Ace Hardware Foundation.(Stanley), see images of the scheme on the #19 Team Schemes page.(4-6-2015)

Fans to choose Keselowski's scheme for All-Star race: In honor of their 25th year together, Miller Lite and Team Penske are letting fans decide the paint scheme of Brad Keselowski's #2 Miller Lite Ford for the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race in May. Fans can vote until 12:00am/et on Sunday, April 19. See the choices and vote, go to the #2 Team Schemes page.(4-6-2015)

Top-10 laps led in 2015 after 6 races (1,816 total laps):
1. #4-Kevin Harvick, 670 (has run all 1,816 laps) (2 wins)
2. #22-Joey Logano, 305 (has run all 1,816 laps) (1 win)
3. #48-Jimmie Johnson, 176 (1 win)
4. #11-Denny Hamlin, 165 (1 win)
5. #24-Jeff Gordon, 111
6. #41-Kurt Busch, 86 (in 3 races)
7. #2-Brad Keselowski, 82 (1 win)
8. #20-Matt Kenseth, 65
9. #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., 36
10. #78-Martin Truex Jr., 32 (has run all 1,816 laps)

Gdovic to make XFINITY debut at Texas: Brandon Gdovic will take the next step in his career when he straps into his #55 WindStax Chevy at Texas Motor Speedway for the O'Reilly Auto Parts 300. This Friday's race will mark the first start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for the young Virginian. Gdovic, 23, cut his teeth short track racing throughout Virginia winning races and championships in INEX Legend Cars, IMCA Modifieds and the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. Over the past 4 seasons, Gdovic has established himself as a fierce competitor in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. He has accumulated 47 starts in that series, with almost half resulting in a top 10-finish. He scored his first career victory in the K&N Pro Series in 2013 at Greenville-Pickens. Brandon Gdovic has also made starts in the ARCA Racing Series, and is scheduled to compete for this season's Lamborghini Super Trofeo championship. Gdovic's first start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series will come at the helm of the #55 Camaro fielded by Viva Motorsports. Support for this race comes from WindStax Wind Power Systems. Continued support of the #55 team is also provided by Viva Auto Group, Bestway Autos, and Viva Powersports.(Viva Motorsports)(4-6-2015)

Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Chevrolet extend partnership: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway and long-standing partner Chevrolet have agreed to a multi-year extension of their partnership agreement. Among the key elements of their partnership, Chevrolet will continue its role as an Official Sponsor of the Verizon IndyCar Series Angie's List Grand Prix of Indianapolis, the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race and the Crown Royal presents the "Your Hero's Name Here 400" at the Brickyard NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Chevrolet will provide the official cars and trucks along with the official safety vehicles for those three world-class IMS events, and will also provide the Official Pace Car for each race. The 2014 Indianapolis 500 marked the 25th time a Chevrolet has paced the "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing." A Chevrolet has also served as the official pace car for the NASCAR Brickyard 400 since 1994, leading the field to the green flag 21 times. At the inaugural Angie's List Grand Prix of Indianapolis, a 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible served as the official pace car for the first ever IndyCar road course race held at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Fans have three quick, convenient methods to buy tickets:
" Online: Visit www.ims.com/tickets. Tickets are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week. " Phone: Call 800-822-INDY or 317-492-6700 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday. " In Person: Visit the IMS Ticket Office at the IMS Administration Building at the corner of Georgetown Road and 16th Street between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday.(IMS)(4-6-2015)

Film To Be Made About Bobby Allison: Posse Films, LLC, the inspirational feature film production company that controls the rights to several historically significant and uplifting life stories, recently announced the making of a biopic about the larger-than-life NASCAR pioneer, and NASCAR Hall of Fame member, Bobby Allison. Together with the Allison family, the Posse Films team will put the dramatic story of one of the greatest NASCAR legends on the silver screen. Posse Films is in pre-production on the heart-centered motivational story of Bobby Allison. "My family and I are thrilled to have this film produced by Posse Films," Bobby Allison said in a recent statement. "Mark and his team at Posse Films are like family to us, and I know we can trust them with our story." The movie project will be based on Bobby Allison's rise to the top of NASCAR as a three-time Daytona 500 winner, followed by a crash that ended Bobby's career at 50 years of age. Thereafter, Bobby and Judy suffer the loss of their two beloved racing sons. The film will showcase the highs and lows of the 55-year love story between Bobby and Judy Allison.(Yahoo Finance)
AND An independent feature film on the life story of NASCAR legend, Bobby Allison, developed by Bobby Allison Production LLC. ("The Company") is scheduled to commence pre-production in late 2014 and filming in early 2015. Theatrical release is planned for fall 2015.(allisonfilm.com)(4-5-2015)

Testing at Richmond...fans invited: Fans are Invited to NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Testing at Richmond International Raceway on Wednesday, April 8th when they take to the track to prepare for the main feature, the Saturday, April 25th Toyota Owners 400. Drivers scheduled to test: #24-Jeff Gordon, #14-Tony Stewart, #2-Brad Keselowski, #15-Clint Bowyer,#42-Kyle Larson, #18-David Ragan, #3-Austin Dillon, #6-Trevor Bayne, #43-Aric Almirola, #13-Casey Mears. Fans are invited to attend testing on Wednesday, April 8th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sit in the grandstands and enjoy a sneak peek of what's to come in a few short weeks. To access the grandstands, please enter through the Main Gate on the corner of Laburnum Avenue and Richmond-Henrico Turnpike. Once in the gate, park near the Virginia is For Lovers Frontstretch Gate and Gate 70, located in Turn 4. Fans can enter the grandstands through Gate 70 only. Driver participation, date and time are subject to change based on schedule and weather Tickets for the NASCAR races at Richmond International Raceway on April 24 & 25 are on sale now. Click here or call 866-455-7223 to purchase.(RIR)(4-6-2015)

Did Not Finish [DNF] Streak and stats: #4-Kevin Harvick has the longest current streak of finishing races at 35 races, of drivers who have run all the races, followed by #19-Carl Edwards at 28; #16-Greg Biffle and #38-David Gilliland at 24.
TWENTY drivers have ran all the races in 2015 and not had an DNF:
Greg Biffle holds the modern day (1972-present) record at 89 (ended at Daytona in July 2014), then Clint Bowyer at 83, Kevin Harvick at 81, Harvick at 58, Jeff Gordon at 56 and Dale Earnhardt at 53.
The old all-time record for the longest streak of not having an DNF 'was' 84 races held by Herman Beam from April 30, 1961 thru March 10, 1963 [Beam didn't run all the races, but did not have a DNF in 84 straight consecutive races that he ran].
The Most DNF's in 2015: #40-Cassill and #14-Stewart has 2 DNF's in 6 races.(3-29-2015)

Priority Points program announced for the Battle at Bristol and future events: Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) has constructed a new platform to ensure their most loyal customers - as determined by longevity and money spent - receive priority. The new Priority Points program will aid in the allocation of seating, parking and camping for the Battle at Bristol and future events. The Battle at Bristol is expected to draw more than 150,000 fans when the iconic NASCAR short track transforms into college football's largest venue Sept. 10, 2016. Touted as a border battle between the University of Tennessee and rival Virginia Tech, the game is on track to crush the current NCAA single-game attendance record of 115,109, which was set in September 2013 at Michigan Stadium.
Only current BMS season ticket holders are able to place a guaranteed deposit for Battle at Bristol tickets through the Speedway and are encouraged to do so before summer. Beginning July 1, BMS NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals Combo ticket holders are able to make nonguaranteed deposits for remaining Battle at Bristol tickets. Any unfulfilled ticket requests secured with a deposit will be refunded. Deposits will be processed in the order of customer's Priority Points total. The deadline to place a deposit on Battle at Bristol tickets is Sept. 10, 2015.
Customers who purchased BMS tickets in 2014 - '15 will receive a customized mailer within a few weeks containing an example of their Priority Point's calculation and detailed brochure. The brochure is also available online by visiting BattleAtBristolTix.com or by calling 844-367-6175.
To increase an account's Priority Points total, purchase tickets for the upcoming NASCAR race weekend April 17 - 19. Food City 500 tickets start at just $64, or to experience a summer of fun with the best value, BMS season tickets begin at $149. Prices increase by $5 race week beginning at 12:01 a.m., Sunday, April 12. For more information visit BristolTix.com or to purchase tickets call 423-BRISTOL.(BMS)(4-5-2015)

Autotrader colors for Logano at Bristol: Nearly 16 years ago, Autotrader created the online automotive marketplace and began a transformation in the way cars were bought and sold. In the years since, Autotrader has evolved into a digital solutions company offering a suite of tools that make car buying and selling easier for consumers, dealers and manufacturers, and attracts the largest audience of any third-party automotive site. Today the company affirms that progress with the launch of a new logo and brand identity. The new logo will soon be a star on the racetrack, as Autotrader and Team Penske will debut a new paint scheme for Joey Logano's #22 Ford Fusion at the Ford City 500 in Bristol on April 19. The company will also evolve its highly successful advertising campaign featuring TV icons the "Dukes of Hazzard," with refreshed creative featuring the new logo.(Autotrader)(4-4-2015)

RCR heads back to Goodwood Festival of Speed: Richard Childress Racing (RCR) has once again been invited to participate in the world's biggest and most diverse celebration of motorsports history - The annual Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex, England. The four-day festival runs June 25 to 28 and features race cars from around the world, past and present. Vehicles of walks of motorsports participate in both demonstration and competition runs up the nine-turn, 1.16-mile hillclimb circuit. Since its inception in 1993, the festival has been held on the English estate of Lord Charles March, West Sussex, England, and RCR is providing a pair of stock cars to be driven at this year's hillclimb. Kerry Earnhardt will once again drive his father's 2000 #3 GM Goodwrench Chevrolet Monte Carlo, which Dale drove at Atlanta Motor Speedway, narrowly beating Bobby Labonte to take the checkered flag that year.
Bobby Labonte, the 2000 Sprint Cup Series Champion, will make his first appearance at the festival and pilot the #3 DOW Chevrolet for the hillclimb circuit competition. This Chevrolet is regularly driven in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series by two-time NASCAR Champion Austin Dillon. Both cars participating in the Goodwood festivities will be prepared by and cared for at the festival by Danny Lawrence, an award-winning engine builder and long-time employee of RCR and ECR Engines. In 2014, Lawrence was honored at the closing ceremonies by Lord March himself for his continuous support of the festival and for playing an integral role with NASCAR's participation year after year at the Festival of Speed.(RCR)(4-4-2015)

Eldora Speedway once again named favorite track in poll: Officials from Speed Sport Magazine and NationalSpeedSportNews.com, America's trusted motorsports authority since 1934, announced today that their readers have voted Eldora Speedway in Rossburg, Ohio as 'My Favorite Track' for the fourth consecutive year. Located just 60 miles northwest of Dayton, Ohio in historic Darke County, the half-mile clay oval, owned by three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Tony Stewart, received 22.8% of the My Favorite Track vote to top the list. Last year, Eldora received 19.4% of the overall vote. Virginia International Raceway, located in Alton, Va., garnered runner up honors to Eldora in the 2015 poll. Knoxville (Iowa) Raceway placed second in 2014, while the Indianapolis Motor Speedway finished behind Eldora in 2012 and 2013.
Speede Sport officials will present the "My Favorite Tracks" award later this year.
2015 My Favorite Track Top 10
1. Eldora Speedway - Rossburg, Ohio
2. Virginia International Raceway - Alton, Va.
3. Knoxville Raceway - Knoxville, Iowa
4. Oswego Speedway - Oswego, N.Y.
5. Road America - Elkhart Lake, Wis.
6. Kokomo Speedway - Kokomo, Ind.
7. (TIE) Indianapolis Motor Speedway - Indianapolis, Ind.
7. (TIE) Williams Grove Speedway - Mechanicsburg, Pa.
9. Lucas Oil Speedway - Wheatland, Mo.
10. New Jersey Motorsports Park - Millville, N.J.
(Eldora Speedway:)(4-4-2015)

Old Crow Medicine Show headline Bristol pre-race concert: Hot on the heels of collecting their second Grammy, Old Crow Medicine Show isn't showing any signs of slowing down. In fact, when Old Crow visits Bristol Motor Speedway on April 19 for the AutoTrader Pre-Race Concert, race fans at the Food City 500 will witness what some call the greatest string band in the world with punk-rock swagger and an old school country sound. Tickets are currently available for race weekend by calling (855) 580-5525 or visiting BristolTix.com. While supplies last, Food City 500 ticket holders may add on a pre-race SuperPass and be stage-side (on the track) for the concert featuring Old Crow Medicine Show. The SuperPass also includes a Track Walk and track access for Bristol's wildly popular Food City 500 Driver Introductions.(BMS)(4-4-2015)

The Rolling Stones to play at Indianapolis Motor Speedway: The Rolling Stones will kick off their new 15-city North American stadium, ZIP CODE tour, in San Diego on May 24 at Petco Park. The band will visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis on July 4. The tour will make stops in Columbus, Minneapolis, Dallas, Atlanta, Orlando, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Kansas City, Raleigh, Detroit and Buffalo before wrapping in Quebec on July 15 at Le Festival D'Été de Québec. Tickets and VIP packages for Indianapolis will go on sale Monday, April 13 at 10am local time. For ticketing information please visit rollingstones.com. American Express Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Wednesday, April 8 at 10am local through Sunday, April 12 at 10pm local for select markets. "The Rolling Stones concert on July 4 will mark the first time the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has hosted a concert on a non-race weekend," said J. Douglas Boles, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president. "The biggest band in the world playing at the biggest sporting venue in the world will provide an unbelievable experience for our fans. It doesn't get any better than the Rolling Stones on Fourth of July Weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway."(IMS)(4-4-2015)

Entry List for the Duck Commander 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway is posted, 46 teams/drivers [for 43 spots] are listed, including: #21-Ryan Blaney, #32-Bliss, #33-Scott, #34-Chris Buescher, #39-Kvapil (new team), #55-Moffitt, #83-DiBenedetto, #95-McDowell.
Drivers who need to be in the top-36 in speed and have no provisional available to them (lowest in owners points): #62-Gaughan(44th owners points), #21-Blaney (45th), #39-Kvapil (none)
Drivers who would miss the race if qualifying is canceled (least race attempts): #39-Kvapil (no race attempts), #21-Blaney (2), #95-McDowell(3)
See the full entry list at my Jayski.com's Texas Entry List

Circle Sport to appeal penalties: Circle Sport will appeal the penalty and fines levied on the #33 Sprint Cup team by NASCAR on March 25th. Team owner Joe Falk told Motorsport.com he felt "the penalty was too severe". The P4 infraction stemmed from an illegal rear truck trailing arm and assembly kit which was mounted incorrectly according to the NASCAR rule book. The suspension piece was discovered during pre-practice inspection at Auto Club Speedway. Falk said modifications made to the rule book following the incident at Auto Club 400 would have changed the spirit of the rule. NASCAR released the new rules regarding the rear suspension along with drawings of the revisions on March 24. But at the time of the #33 Circle Sport Chevy's inspection on the previous Friday, the rules were not in place. The penalties included a three-race suspension for crew chief Richard "Slugger" Labbe and a $50,000 fine. Labbe is on probation until the end of the year. Car owner Joe Falk was docked 25 championship car owner points. Falk didn't believe the punishment fit the crime, particularly the 25 points. Falk conceded that "25 is like taking two races from us" considering that the #33 car's average finish this season is 28th. "We really think that we're in the right - we're not 100% right - but we're not as wrong as they're saying," Falk added. Falk expects the hearing to be held after next weekend's races at Texas Motor Speedway. Alex Kennedy will pilot the #33 Chevy with veteran crew chief Pat Tryson calling the shots.(Motorsport). Tryson had been the crew chief for the #30 TMG team, but that team is running a part-time schedule with driver Ron Hornaday. The team skipped the three west coast races in March, but attempted Martinsville last week, failing to qualify. The #30 is not entered the Texas race.(4-3-2015)

Gordon family 'rolling' to unique off-weekend event: For the first time this season, the Sprint Cup Series is taking an off week. And Jeff Gordon plans to take advantage. Over the Easter weekend, he and his family will head to Washington, D.C., for a unique experience. "We always look forward to Easter. This year we're going to stay fairly close to home," Gordon said. "We were invited to go to the White House and do the Easter Egg Roll that they do. We're going to go up there and do some touring of D.C., which is something I've never done." Gordon plans to experience as much of the nation's capital as he can while he, his wife Ingrid and their children Leo and Ella are there. "We'll take the kids, go the Smithsonian, go around the city and enjoy D.C., like we never have before," Gordon said. "Of course Leo is very interested in the Air and Space Museum and the National History Museum. So hopefully we have a chance to see all those things."(HMS)(4-3-2015)

Rusty Wallace to run Off-Road Truck at the X Games: Officials of Rusty Wallace, Inc. announced today that NASCAR Hall of Famer and 55-time Sprint Cup Series race winner, Rusty Wallace has accepted an invitation to compete in this year's Off-Road Truck Racing event at X Games Austin. The 2015 edition of the world-renowned extreme sports competition will be held at Circuit of the Americas, home to the Formula One United States Grand Prix. Backing Wallace and his truck in the event will be Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches. Said Wallace, "I may be retired from driving, but that doesn't mean I don't have the itch to get back behind the wheel; I love to compete. Plus, the X Games are just such a big deal. During my time with ESPN, I watched the X Games a lot and really enjoyed them. Some of the world's best athletes are there. So when the opportunity came to be a part of the event, there was no way I was going to say no." The Off-Road Trucks event at X Games Austin will be held on June 7, 2015. The event will feature live television coverage by ABC.(RustyWallace.com)(4-3-2015)

XFINITY Entry List:There are 39 cars on the preliminary entry list for Friday nights's O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 at Texas Motor Speedway. A few notes:
Jeff Green is in the #10 for Tri-Star;
Timmy Hill will drive the #13;
Stanton Barrett is back in the #15 for Rick Ware;
Carl Long will drive the #40;
Brennan Poole returns to the #42 for Chip Ganassi;
Denny Hamlin will drive the #54 for Joe Gibbs;
Dale Earnhardt, Jr. returns to the #88;
Sam Hornish will drive the #98 for Biagi.(4-3-2015)
UPDATE: The #55 team have been added with driver Brandon Gdovic.(4-3-2015)
See the complete list on the Texas entry list page.

Jeff Gordon's Children Named Grand Marshals For Food City 500: The children of four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion, Jeff Gordon have been named Grand Marshals for the April 19 Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Ella (age 7) and Leo (age 4) will give the command to start the 24th running of the Food City 500. "Over the years, Jeff Gordon has been a true friend to Food City and our region. He has been a loyal supporter of Food City Family Race Night and raised countless dollars in support of our local food banks through his partnership with AARP's Drive to End Hunger," said Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer. "In appreciation for his many contributions to our company and our region; and to commemorate his final season competing for a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship, we couldn't think of more befitting Grand Marshals for our Food City 500 than Jeff's children."
His combined determination, hard work and decades of experience have achieved an unparalleled roster of victories, boasting 92 career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series victories and third on the all-time wins and pole award lists. Gordon is a three-time Daytona 500 winner, five-time Brickyard 400 winner, three-time champion of The Sprint All-Star Challenge and four-time Food City 500 winner - and the list goes on and on.
Food City is Bristol Motor Speedway's longest running sponsor and the second longest in NASCAR motorsports. The Food City 500 gets under way at 1:00pm/et on Sunday, April 19, 2015. Qualifying for the event takes place on Friday, April 17 at 4:45pm/et. Tickets are still available and may be purchased at www.BristolTix.com or by calling the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(4-3-2015)

NHMS GM pleads guilty to lewdness charge: New Hampshire Motor Speedway general manager Jerry Gappens pleaded guilty Thursday to a charge of lewdness. Gappens was arrested in January after police said he engaged in sexual activity with a woman inside a car. Gappens' attorney said the conduct occurred in a car behind darkened windows in a publicly accessible parking lot. In court, Gappens said he was taking full responsibility for his actions. "I did not act according to the standards that I have as a person and as a husband," Gappens said. "I sincerely apologize to my wife and family for the hurt and public embarrassment caused by my uncharacteristic behavior." Gappens was fined $1,200, with $700 of the fine suspended for one year. He was also ordered to attend counseling. Gappens said he has already faced disciplinary action at NHMS and expects to keep his job.(WMUR)(4-3-2015)

#31 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Team Penalized For Rules Violations UPDATE RCR appeals: The #31 team that competes in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series has been penalized for rules infractions discovered as a result of NASCAR's post-event tire audit conducted following the March 22 race at Auto Club Speedway. These infractions amount to a P5 level penalty and violate the following Sections in the 2015 NASCAR rule book:
12.1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing
20.16: Wheels and tires
A. Any device, modification, or procedure to the tire or wheel, including the valve stem hardware, that is used to release pressure, beyond normal pressure adjustments, from the tire and/or inner shield, will not be permitted.
20.16.2: Tires
F. Modifications to the tires, by treatment or any other means, will not be permitted.
Section 12.5.3.5.1 lists P5 Penalty Violation examples that could include but are not limited to:
A. Effecting, modifying and/or altering the standard tires in any way, other than through authorized means such as tire pressure adjustments within the recommended range, permitted tire cooling when mounted on the race vehicle; or heat-cycling on the race vehicle on the race track earlier in the event.
12.5.3.5.2: Minimum P5 Penalty Options (includes all four points below):
A. Loss of 50 championship driver and owner points, regardless of whether the violation occurred during a Championship race or not
B. $75,000-$125,000 fine
C. Suspension for the next six series Championship Races, plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, for the crew chief and any other team members as determined by NASCAR
D. Probation through the end of the calendar year for all suspended members, or for a six-month period following the issuance of the penalty notice if that period spans across two consecutive seasons
12.5.3.5.3: P5 Level infractions detected during post-race inspection:
If the infraction is detected during post-race inspection, then the following penalty elements will be added to those listed previously in this section:
A. Loss of an additional 25 Championship driver and owner points; regardless of whether it was a Championship Race or not
B. Loss of an additional $50,000
As a result of these violations, crew chief Luke Lambert has been fined a total of $125,000 ($75,000 plus $50,000), suspended from the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship races, plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, and been placed on NASCAR probation through Dec. 31. James Bender, team tire technician, and Philip Surgen, team engineer, have been suspended from the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship races, plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, and been placed on NASCAR probation through Dec. 31.
Driver Ryan Newman and car owner Richard Childress each have been penalized with the loss of 75 (50 plus 25) championship driver and championship car owner points.
"NASCAR takes very seriously its responsibility to govern and regulate the rules of the sport in order to ensure competitive balance," said Steve O'Donnell, NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Racing Development Officer. "We've been very clear that any modifications to race vehicle tires is an unacceptable practice and will not be tolerated."(NASCAR)
See the Revised Sprint Cup Series Points page after #31 Penalty(pdf).(3-31-2015)
UPDATE - RCR appeals #31 penalties: Richard Childress Racing has appealed the penalties NASCAR levied against Ryan Newman's #31 team for allegedly manipulating tires. NASCAR this week said tires taken from Newman after the March 22 race in California failed an independent inspection and had been altered to intentionally release air pressure during the race. No date for the appeal was set Thursday.(Associated Press)
AND: RCR requested deferral of penalties w/appeal. NASCAR granted for suspension & fines, but not for points. If they prevail, points reinstated.(Tweet from David Higdon, VP Integrated Marketing Communications of NASCAR)(4-2-2015)

Latest on Kyle Larson UPDATE3: #42-Kyle Larson watched Sunday's NASCAR race on a laptop in a hospital after failing to get medical clearance to drive after fainting during an autograph session. Larson was in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he was taken for further testing. "He's good. No change since he woke up from fainting," team owner Chip Ganassi said from the IndyCar Series season-opening race in St. Petersburg, Florida. All tests have come back negative, and the team maintains Larson feels fine. But doctors at Carolina's Medical Center, where Larson traveled to by helicopter Saturday night after leaving Martinsville Memorial Hospital, are giving him a battery of tests. Larson is also seeing a neurologist in North Carolina as a precaution. "You are trying to do the right thing and you want to be safe, and you want to err on the side of safety," Ganassi said. "I want to respect the professionals and respect what they are saying, but we want to be realistic, too." Dr. Jerry Petty, a neurosurgeon who works closely with many NASCAR teams, has visited Larson. A member of NASCAR's care center team also has assisted.(Associated Press)(3-30-2015)
UPDATE Larson still in hospital: As of 6:00pm/et Monday [March 30th], #42-Kyle Larson remains in a Charlotte hospital, where tests are ongoing to determine why he fainted during an autograph session Saturday at Martinsville Speedway. A spokesperson for Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates told FOX Sports 1 reporter Alan Cavana that the team hoped Larson would be released sometime Monday night. The team spokesman said so far all of the tests have come back negative and that Larson is feeling well and in good spirits. Larson missed Sunday's STP 500 at Martinsville Speedway, where his seat was filled by Regan Smith, who finished 16th. With six races complete on the season, Larson is 24th in points.(FoxSports)(3-30-2015)
UPDATE2: Statement from Target Chop Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates regarding Kyle Larson: "After extensive testing and observation over the last few days, Kyle Larson was released from the hospital last night and has finished up final tests today. He is currently waiting for final doctor recommendations in order to clear him to return to all NASCAR related activities."(CGR)(3-31-2015)
UPDATE3: Kyle Larson has been cleared to race after last weekend's fainting spell and will return to the track next weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. Chip Ganassi Racing made the announcement Thursday, three days after Larson was released from a Charlotte hospital where he underwent extensive testing. "I feel great right now, and I felt perfectly fine shortly after I fainted the other day," Larson said in a NASCAR teleconference Tuesday. "But yeah, I just had to get a lot of tests run on me to make sure nothing serious was wrong with me, and all the tests came back negative. Yeah, the whole time I felt fine, and hated it that I couldn't race this weekend in the Target Chevy, but Regan (Smith) did a really good job, and just got to thank all the doctors and nurses for how thorough they were with me."
Larson, the 2014 Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year, was hospitalized Saturday after fainting during an autograph session at Martinsville. "Well, I felt fine before we went to the autograph session," Larson said. "I got through to the end of it, and I was just talking to one more fan, the last person there really, and just started getting light-headed and tried to lean forward and maybe see if that fixed it, and then I passed out. "I don't know, it was just kind of a weird morning just because I was almost late to practice, so I just rushed myself that morning and didn't take very good care of myself throughout the day and just ended up dehydrating myself. Just got to do a better job of taking care of myself, and that should never happen again.".(CGR)(4-2-2015)

BMS to add SAFER before April race: Statement from Executive Vice President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, Jerry Caldwell, regarding the additional installation of SAFER barrier walls at Bristol Motor Speedway: "The safety of our fans and competitors continues to be a focal point for Bristol Motor Speedway," said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager for Bristol Motor Speedway. "SMI engineers and NASCAR reevaluated the track and made additional recommendations. We've been able to secure an additional 600 feet of SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barriers and will complete the build out of the front and backstretch outside walls before the Food City 500 race weekend."(BMS)(4-2-2015)

More SAFER to be added at Michigan: Statement from Michigan International Speedway (MIS) President Roger Curtis on Safety Initiatives: Following a significant review of the facility by International Speedway Corporation (ISC) and NASCAR, additional safety measures will be implemented prior to the June NASCAR weekend. Steel and Foam Energy Reduction (SAFER) will be added to pit in and pit out walls and tire pack barriers will be installed at the angled wall inside Turn 1. Additionally, the infield at the exit of pit road will be paved to function as a skid pad and pace car vehicle entry and exit. Upon the conclusion of the August NASCAR weekend and installed in time for the 2016 racing season, Michigan International Speedway will add SAFER to outside walls on the frontstretch and backstretch as well as the pit tri-oval wall. "The safety of our guests, competitors and staff is our number one priority," said Roger Curtis, MIS president. "We will continue to review our facility and provide updates as circumstances warrant."(MIS)(4-2-2015)

Tyler Andrew Walker sentenced to jail: A 5th District Court Judge sentenced a former NASCAR driver Monday to 90 days in jail, a $1,665 fine and 36 months of probation in a high-speed car chase case from January 2013. Timothy Tyler Andrew Walker, 35, appeared before 5th District Court for sentencing on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges - including third-degree felony failure to stop at the command of a police officer, third-degree felony possession of a controlled substance, a class B misdemeanor count of driving under the influence, a class B misdemeanor count of possession of paraphernalia and a class C misdemeanor possession of an open container of alcohol in a vehicle -which he pleaded guilty to in December 2014. Walker's charges stem from his arrest in St. George following a car chase through Nevada, Arizona and Utah on Jan. 30, 2013, that reached speeds of 150 mph. Judge Eric A. Ludlow sentenced Walker to zero to five years in the Utah State Prison on two third-degree felony counts. Ludlow also sentenced Walker to two terms of 180 days on two class B misdemeanor counts and a term of 90 days for both a third-degree felony and class C misdemeanor at a state jail. All but 90 days of the jail time was suspended. Ludlow also ordered Walker to serve 36 months of supervised probation. Upon his release, Walker will undergo a substance abuse evaluation and report to Adult Probation and Parole. "Tyler's in a better spot than he was two years ago," Walker's attorney Trevor D. Terry said. "He was living a pretty lavish lifestyle at the time. That is not the case anymore, and I think it's for his benefit." Terry said Walker now drives "an old, beat-up Prius" and works for his family's company. Both of Walker's parents appeared in court to support him. Walker addressed the court to apologize for his poor judgment. "The last two weeks have given me a lot of alone time to write out a lot of goals for me without distractions," Walker said. "It has given me a clarity on my life and where I'd like for it to go. I can succeed, and I'm going to work my butt off to do everything that you ask of me. I will never be late or show any disrespect again, and I apologize for that as well." Walker has been held in Purgatory Correctional Facility since being arrested on a no-bail warrant after showing up late to his previously scheduled sentencing hearing on March 16. While in custody, a court-ordered drug test detected amphetamine salts and marijuana, both of which he has a prescription for in California, Terry said. Walker's issues with substance abuse led to his suspension from NASCAR in 2007 after allegedly failing a drug test. He is still facing legal fallout from the high-speed chase in Arizona and was scheduled to appear in a Mohave County court last week to address an alleged probation violation, which has been rescheduled due to his incarceration.(The Spectrum)(4-2-2015)

Moffitt back in the #55 at Texas: Brett Moffitt will drive the #55 Aaron's Toyota of Michael Waltrip Racing at Texas Motor Speedway on April 11th (MWR Facebook). Moffitt has subbed for Brian Vickers in the last two races (Auto Club and Martinsville) in the #55 Toyota as Vickers sits out due to recurring blood clots. MWR has not named a driver past the Texas race. Moffitt is also running for the Sprint Cup Series Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award.(4-2-2015)

811 Logo featured on #22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford in five races: The #22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Fusion of Joey Logano, will help raise awareness about the importance of safe digging during five races in 2015. Shell Pipeline Company L.P. and the Common Ground Alliance are working with Team Penske on the program, which will highlight 811, the national "Call Before You Dig" hotline, at the races immediately preceding and following National 811 Day on August 11:
July 11 at Kentucky; July 26 at Indy; August 9 at Watkins Glen; August 16 at Michigan; and November 1 at Martinsville.
"We're bringing back this program for a seventh year because it's such an important cause. Every time we display the 811 logo on the decklid of the #22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Fusion in a race the Common Ground Alliance sees an increase in 811 calls," said Greg Smith, President of SPLC. "When somebody starts a digging project without calling 811, they run the risk of damaging pipelines, or knocking out power or gas to an entire neighborhood, for which they can be held financially responsible. It's critical that everyone remember to call before digging, even for small projects like planting trees or shrubs."
"We are proud to continue to support Shell in the longstanding work they do to further awareness of safe digging practices," said Roger Penske. "Just like Joey has a spotter to let him know whether or not it is clear before he makes a move on the track, 811 helps you make sure you are clear to break ground."
For more information about safe digging practices and what you can do to avoid causing injury or damaging infrastructure, visit www.call811.com.(SPLC/Common Ground Alliance), see an image of the scheme on the #22 Team Schemes page.(4-2-2015)

MAKE Motorsports celebrates five years: Today marks the five year anniversary of the first race that the MAKE Motorsports organization qualified for their first NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at the Nashville Superspeedway. The #50 entered and qualified for that race in 2010 marking the inception of the family owned and ran team. MAKE Motorsports is owned by Mark Beaver and Tracy Lowe. The team started with one truck that is famously known as "Porky". This truck is still in the MAKE chassis fleet having last raced a week ago at Martinsville Speedway. This truck is the reason that all of MAKE's chassis are named after pigs. Since then MAKE has added four more trucks and three Xfinity cars to their fleet. Since their inception, MAKE Motorsports has attempted nearly 100 races with multiple drivers across the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series. They have run a full season in 2014 and expanded to a two-truck team in 2015.(MAKE Motorsports)(4-2-2015)

Wauters to return with Quiroga UPDATE: Wauters Motorsports is returning to NASCAR Camping World Truck Series competition with driver German Quiroga. The team will document their return via a web series, owner Wauters announced on a video posted to the team's social media accounts. The series is set to launch this coming Sunday. Last season, the Wauters team ran eight races before driver John Wes Townley left the team. Quiroga ran the entire 22-race schedule with Red Horse Racing and finished sixth in driver points with 10 top-10 finishes and three top-fives.((Wauters Motorsports)(3-20-2015)
UPDATE: Wauters Motorsports and three-time NASCAR Mexico Champion German Quiroga are excited to introduce "Nation Rising". Nation Rising is a hybrid digital series that will follow Quiroga as he competes in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in this 24/7-access, no-filter series. NASCAR fans are some of the most dedicated and loyal sports fans in the world. Now, these fans have the ability to experience the racing world like they never have before. The Nation Rising's goal is to have a 10 minute episode air the Monday after each race, starting May 11th for a total of 22 episodes. Combined with the excitement of NASCAR, this 24/7 in-depth series will show people across the world what it takes to race in one of the biggest sporting leagues as Nation Rising follows German Quiroga all season. Through Kickstarter, Nation Rising has launched this campaign where the fans have the opportunity to have their name, their face, on the No. 5 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Toyota Tundra each week. These fans will be the sponsors. The Nation Rising Kickstarter campaigns goal is to raise three million dollars so Quiroga and Wauters can launch the first web based series May 11, 2015 after competing in the Kansas Speedway NCWTS event Friday, May 8, 2015. Jose Jimenez who is an experienced cinematographer will produce and edit the Nation Rising video vignettes. Quiroga has five top-five, 17 top-10 finishes and one pole starting position in just 50 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series starts. The Mexico native posted his best points finish of sixth place in the 2014 NCWTS driver points. Team owner, Richie Wauters has 17 wins in his tenure with Kyle Busch, Aric Almirola and Shane Hmiel.(Wauters Motorsports)(4-2-2015)

Watkins Glen President, Michael Printup assumes Americrown role, to continue as President: International Speedway Corporation announced that Watkins Glen International President Michael Printup will assume additional responsibilities within the company, including managerial oversight of Americrown, effective immediately. While continuing in his current role with the historic New York road course, Printup will lead the Americrown team in strategy for profitability, a successful execution of Daytona Rising food and beverage, and enhancing overall value and operations. Printup will also continue with his oversight of Michigan International Speedway, according to an ISC release. "I am very excited to take on this additional responsibility within ISC," Printup said. "I look forward to working closely with all of those involved with Americrown, while moving forward with my role at Watkins Glen International." Americrown, formed in 1989, is the leader in motorsports catering, concessions and merchandise sales and service. Operating at 12 NASCAR-sanctioned tracks nationwide, Americrown serves millions of race fans annually.(WGI)(4-2-2015)

Texas Motor Speedway to place tire packs at five locations UPDATE: Texas Motor Speedway will present additional safety devices when its racing season begins next week with a NASCAR doubleheader. Speedway Motorsports Inc., which owns TMS, began reviewing its facilities after Kyle Busch's hard crash into an unprotected concrete wall at Daytona International Speedway in the season-opening Xfinity race. Busch incurred a broken right leg and left foot and has not returned. SMI assigned a group of consultants and engineers review TMS' 11/2-mile track on Sunday. They recommended adding 244 linear feet of tire packs in five locations. That includes spaces of 33 feet in Turn 1 and 29 feet in Turn 4. TMS immediately went to work implementing the suggestions, at its expense. The track expects the tire packs to be installed in time for the first events of the season: the Xfinity O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 on April 10 and the Sprint Cup Duck Commander 500 the following evening. The tire packs are a short-term answer. In the off-season, when the material is available, TMS is expected to replace them with the more advanced and more expensive SAFER barrier.(Dallas Morning News)(4-1-2015)
UPDATE: Texas Motor Speedway, following the recommendations and guidance of NASCAR officials, completed a two-day installation project Wednesday to add 250 feet of tire barriers in preparation for next week's Duck Commander 500 NASCAR doubleheader weekend. The tire bundles were added to five inner wall areas of the 1.5-mile oval per the instruction of NASCAR as to the specific locations, length of runs and general construction of the safety addition. The inner wall at the exit of pit lane was the most wide-ranging area with 115 feet of tire bundles while areas near pit lane entry, the jet truck staging area in Turn 1 and emergency vehicle cut-out areas in turns 1 and 4 varied between 30 and 35 feet each. Approximately 450 tires were used in constructing the barriers, which will complement the existing, extensive SAFER Barrier system that encompasses the majority of the walls.
The tire bundles, which consist of a combination of racing and street tires, are bolted together using heavy-duty nuts, bolts and washers. The tires are secured to the wall with a 3/8-inch cable that runs through the top row of tires of each tire bundle as well as cable clamps that are also used on the speedway's wheel fence. The purpose of the cable is to minimize the tires becoming dislodged should they be heavily impacted.(TMS)(4-2-2015)

NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2016 Fan Vote Opens: Fan voting for the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2016 opened March 31st on NASCAR.com and runs through Monday, May 19 at 11:59pm/et. The five nominees receiving the highest percentage of votes will comprise the Fan Vote ballot.
Following are the 20 nominees for induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, listed alphabetically:
Buddy Baker, Red Byron, Richard Childress, Jerry Cook, Ray Evernham, Ray Fox, Rick Hendrick, Harry Hyde, Bobby Isaac, Alan Kulwicki, Terry Labonte, Mark Martin, Hershel McGriff, Raymond Parks, Benny Parsons, Larry Phillips, O. Bruton Smith, Mike Stefanik, Curtis Turner, Robert Yates. The NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2016 will be voted on and announced at the NASCAR Hall of Fame on Wednesday, May 20.(NASCAR)(4-1-2015)

Axalta, Penn State and Jeff Gordon partner to highlight STEM, business education: Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global manufacturer of liquid and powder coatings, and Penn State on Tuesday (March 31st) jointly announced a partnership that will include an on-campus press event and special learning opportunities with #24-Jeff Gordon and his team at Pocono Raceway. The program, designed to drive awareness and support for STEM and business education, will focus on students currently engaged in the study of engineering and business.
"Engineering is an integral part of the racing industry, as it translates into practical applications we use every day," said Charlie Shaver, Axalta Chairman and CEO. "We are proud of our 23-year motorsports partnership with Hendrick Motorsports and Jeff Gordon and are honored to have the opportunity to support Penn State University's curricula with this special program. It is crucial to many industries, including Axalta's, to have access to skilled engineers and business leaders, and Penn State is providing the specialized programs needed to prepare them for the future."
The April 14 on-campus event will include a visit by Gordon, a student pep-rally and an unveiling of the #24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevy paint scheme that Gordon will drive at Pocono Raceway in the June 7 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race named the "Axalta 'We Paint Winners' 400." "The relationship between Penn State and Axalta offers our students the opportunity to learn about careers in business and engineering fields from the leaders of a global player based right here in Pennsylvania," said Penn State President Eric J. Barron. "Helping students toward career success is of critical importance to the Penn State experience, and partnerships such as this are another way of giving our students special, hands-on opportunities to learn about their fields of study and the job market."
"Supporting STEM education and future business leaders is vital to our future," said Gordon. "I depend on the mechanical engineers on my team to make sure that my racecar is in top form for every race. Linking STEM education to the technology behind successful racing is important. I'm proud to partner with Axalta and Penn State on this exciting program."(psu.edu)(4-1-2015)

Ernie Elliott's wife charged with aggravated assault: The wife of famed NASCAR engine builder Ernie Elliott was arrested early Tuesday morning. Sheila G. Elliott, 63, was charged with felony aggravated assault in connection with an incident that occurred on March 18 at the family's racing compound on Elliott Family Parkway. According to the arrest warrant, the suspect over revved the engine of her 2004 Mercedes Benz sedan and attempted to run her husband over with the vehicle, forcing him to climb "underneath a trailer for safety." He was not injured during the incident, which was reported to local authorities on March 24, the same day a warrant was secured for Sheila Elliott's arrest. Officers attempted to make an arrest that day, but were not able to do so due to a health concern. "Cpl. Ethan Taffar investigated and was about to take her into custody for aggravated assault under family violence when a medical condition arose, which had to be dealt with at that particular moment," said Capt. Tony Wooten, sheriff's spokesman. The nature of the argument that led to the alleged assault on March 18 was not publically revealed. Revered as one of NASCAR's top engine builders, Ernie Elliott helped power brother Bill Elliott to numerous victories over the family's 20-year collaboration, including his 1988 championship. He also built the engine that holds NASCAR's Sprint Cup qualifying record. His engines have 39 wins, 148 top five's, 291 top 10's and 51 poles. As of Tuesday afternoon, she remained in police custody without bond. A hearing before a judge is set for today.(Dawson News)(4-1-2015)

ARRIS Technology to Help Power Communications at NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Events: ARRIS (sponsor of #19-Carl Edwards) announced that its technology and services will help power NASCAR Productions, LLC by providing NASCAR Productions with equipment for Internet services at NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events this season. "Every second counts in NASCAR," said Ron Coppock, President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing at ARRIS. "Our technology speeds up the crucial flow of information at-track between NASCAR Productions and the teams and for use by the teams to send information while at-track, so they can keep pushing the envelope of the sport." Each NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team will receive an ARRIS SURFBoard SB6183, and ARRIS's E6000 Converged Edge Router (CER) will serve as the hub for delivering all services to the modems, ensuring a secure and reliable connection during races. In addition, the ARRIS Global Services team will be on-site at every NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, providing full integration and support for the technology provided to NASCAR Productions throughout the racing season.
"Our E6000 Converged Edge Router provides the fastest, most advanced broadband services. And now, NASCAR Productions is relying on it to deliver its at-track Internet service," added Coppock.
"At NASCAR, we are driven by technology. We use innovation to generate close racing; foster safety; and create compelling experiences for fans watching at home, in-person and on the go," said Steve Stum, Vice President, Operations and Technical Production, NASCAR Productions.(ARRIS)(4-1-2015)

Martinsville TV Ratings UPDATE: The first ever NASCAR race on Fox Sports 1 was no match for coverage on FOX last year, but still put up respectable numbers. NASCAR Sprint Cup racing from Martinsville earned a 2.5 overnight rating on FS1 Sunday afternoon, down 34% from last year (3.8) and down 38% from 2013 (4.0), both of which aired on FOX. The 2.5 is the lowest for the race since at least 2002, the last time it aired on cable. Sunday's telecast was the first NASCAR Sprint Cup race to air on Fox Sports 1 (previously Speed Channel). It topped other NASCAR telecasts on the network, including last year's Sprint Cup All-Star Race (1.7), last year's Sprint Unlimited (1.8) and this year's four Xfinity Series races (0.8 to 1.7). Despite airing on cable, the race was the highest rated non-NCAA Tournament sporting event of the weekend in the metered markets. It more-than-tripled competing coverage of the IndyCar Series from St. Petersburg on broadcast network ABC (0.8). FOX was originally scheduled to air the Martinsville race, with FS1 making its debut April 25 from Richmond. The networks swapped the races to accommodate MLB coverage on FS1 that day.(Sports Media Watch / Sports Business Daily)(3-31-2015)
UPDATE: On Sunday (3/29), FOX Sports televised its first ever regularly scheduled NASCAR Sprint Cup Series points race on FOX Sports 1, and the audience from Martinsville Speedway was record-setting. Overcoming intense competition, the race attracted 4,061,000 viewers making it the most-watched motorsports event in network history, the fourth most-watched telecast ever on the network and the only non-MLB postseason event among the network's top five. According to Nielsen, the race propelled FOX Sports 1 to its most-watched Sunday from 6:00 AM-3:00 AM since launch, averaging 1,068,000 viewers over that span. Moreover, FOX Sports 1 was the most-watched ad supported cable network from 1:00-5:15 PM ET on Sunday (4,089,000 viewers), posting a +170% advantage over the next closest network (Nickelodeon, 1,511,000 viewers). The audience for the race peaked at 5,450,000 from 5:00-5:11 PM ET as Denny Hamlin held off a final-lap charge from Brad Keselowski to cop his first win of the season.
The audience for Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race supplanted the previous FOX Sports 1 motorsports record of 3,526,000 set Feb. 15, 2014 for the Sprint Unlimited. The only other Sprint Cup points event on FOX Sports 1 was last season's Bristol race on March 16 which was moved from FOX to FOX Sports 1 due to rain. That race averaged 3,227,000 viewers.
Preceding the race, NASCAR Raceday posted 1,008,000 viewers, +52% above last year's edition from Martinsville (661,000). Immediately following the race, a special airing of FOX SPORTS LIVE posted 1,904,000 viewers marking the show's seventh most-watched edition ever. On Saturday (3/28) the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race from Martinsville scored 1,100,000 viewers, +22% from the 2013 race on SPEED (902,000). Last year's race was rained out and moved to Sunday at 5:30pm and delivered 532,000 viewers.(Fox)(4-1-2015)

Texas Motor Speedway to place tire packs at five locations: Texas Motor Speedway will present additional safety devices when its racing season begins next week with a NASCAR doubleheader. Speedway Motorsports Inc., which owns TMS, began reviewing its facilities after Kyle Busch's hard crash into an unprotected concrete wall at Daytona International Speedway in the season-opening Xfinity race. Busch incurred a broken right leg and left foot and has not returned. SMI assigned a group of consultants and engineers review TMS' 11/2-mile track on Sunday. They recommended adding 244 linear feet of tire packs in five locations. That includes spaces of 33 feet in Turn 1 and 29 feet in Turn 4. TMS immediately went to work implementing the suggestions, at its expense. The track expects the tire packs to be installed in time for the first events of the season: the Xfinity O'Reilly Auto Parts 300 on April 10 and the Sprint Cup Duck Commander 500 the following evening. The tire packs are a short-term answer. In the off-season, when the material is available, TMS is expected to replace them with the more advanced and more expensive SAFER barrier.(Dallas Morning News)(4-1-2015)

Dover track and hotel will again 'Light It Up Blue' for Autism Awareness Month: Dover International Speedway and Dover Downs Hotel & Casino are pleased to once again support Autism Speaks' global Light It Up Blue campaign. The Monster Monument and hotel exterior will participate by both being illuminated in blue throughout the month of April. With both companies partaking in this event, this will mean that two of the most distinguishable landmarks in Delaware will be lit up blue during April. The Monster Monument, made of fiberglass and standing at 46-feet tall, is also known as Miles the Monster, the track's recognizable icon. Located in Victory Plaza, it is one of the largest fiberglass sports monument in the country. The 500-room hotel, Delaware's largest hotel, will also be lit by blue lights. The Speedway and Autism Speaks have maintained a strong relationship over the last nine years, with the two organizations coming together during the track's spring race weekend in order to assist in raising funds and awareness for the cause.
Recognized every year on April 2, World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) was originally implemented by the United Nations in 2007 to help educate society about autism and how this worldwide health issue is rising over time. WAAD helps spread knowledge across the globe of the effects of autism and distribute appropriate information regarding topics such as early diagnosis and intervention. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.
On a local level, Dover International Speedway and Dover Downs Hotel & Casino are proud to partner with Autism Delaware's Productive Opportunities for Work and Recreation Program (POW&R program) to provide employment opportunities for adults with autism spectrum disorders. A total of nine individuals on the autism spectrum are currently employed by Dover Downs Hotel & Casino and Dover International Speedway in a variety of capacities. Both companies have gained highly productive, reliable employees. To help support this vibrant partnership, Dover Downs Hotel & Casino donated office space to Autism Delaware in 2013. The office supports the POW&R program at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino and Dover International Speedway as well as provides for a Kent County office for Autism Delaware. The office provides adult services, clinical services and family support. For more information about Light It Up Blue, visit liub.autismspeaks.org.(DIS)(4-1-2015)