Pop singer/songwriter/actress JoJo will sing "The Star Spangled Banner" at Phoenix: Pop singer/songwriter and actress JoJo will sing "The Star Spangled Banner" prior to the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race at Phoenix International Raceway Sunday afternoon. "I'm so excited to return to Phoenix International Raceway and perform at the semifinal race in the Chase," said JoJo. "I feel extremely honored to have the opportunity once again to sing the National Anthem in front of such amazing and dedicated racing fans."
The multi-platinum singer burst onto the music scene in 2004 with her debut single "Leave (Get Out)," which reached no. 1 on the Billboard Pop songs chart, making her the youngest solo artist to have a number-one single in the United States, at thirteen years old, as well as the youngest solo artist to receive at MTV Video Music Award Nomination. After a follow up album, "The High Road" was released in 2006, the Foxborough, Mass., native most recently released three singles known as "III." on iTunes in support of her forthcoming third studio album scheduled for a November 2015 release.
Apart from her work in music, JoJo has earned success in her career as an actress. She made her first television acting debut in 2002 on The Bernie Mac Show. Her starring role in the Twentieth Century Fox film, Aquamarine, garnered JoJo multiple award nominations including a Teen Choice Award - Movies "Choice Breakout." Her follow up Columbia Pictures film, RV, co-starring Robin Williams, Cheryl Hines, Josh Hutcherson and Kristin Chenoweth opened at No. 1 in the Box Office during its first week of release. JoJo most recently appeared in her third film, G.B.F., which was released in 2013.
Race fans attending the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Friday, Nov. 13 will hear the national anthem performed by the Anglim Sisters. The country singing trio from Scottsdale, Ariz., covers contemporary rock ballads and is looking to release a self-titled debut album.
Although the grandstands are sold out for Sunday's race, fans wishing to attend the final Eliminator race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup may still purchase general admission tickets to PIR's Hillside area. Tickets for Friday and Saturday, as well as Sunday's Hillside area, may be purchased online at PhoenixRaceway.com or by phone at 866-408-RACE.(PIR)(11-13-2015)

PIR'S Park 'N Ride Program Offers NASCAR Fans Travel Option: Phoenix International Raceway has announced the operating schedule for its Park 'N Ride program - encouraging race fans to take advantage of the convenient shuttle service when traveling to and from the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Nov. 15. After much success in recent years, the Park 'N Ride program returns to Ak-Chin Pavilion, located just two blocks north of I-10 on 83rd Avenue (Exit 135) at 2121 N. 83rd Ave. All NASCAR fans heading to PIR are encouraged to enter at the 83rd Avenue entrance and park on Pavilion grounds, from where shuttle bus service (provided by First Student Charter of Phoenix) will take you to the Gate 4 area at the track.
Cost for parking and shuttle services to PIR will remain at $7 per car. Those with a PIR-issued parking pass or a government-issued disability parking tag may ride for free. This year, all shuttle buses are ADA compliant to make sure all race fans are able to get to the track safely. Shuttle buses will take guests to PIR via preferential traffic routes, offering guests an earlier arrival to the facility. With the green flag dropping on the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 at 12:30 p.m. (local), Park 'N Ride services will be available for 12 hours - from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. - on Sunday, giving all NASCAR fans an alternate transportation option before and after the race. The first shuttle will depart at 7:30 a.m., with PIR gates open to the public at 8 a.m. Although the grandstands are sold out for Sunday's race, race fans wishing to attend the final Eliminator race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup may still purchase general admission tickets to PIR's Hillside area. Tickets and pit passes may be purchased online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the track ticket office.(PIR)(11-13-2015)

Phoenix International Raceway to recognize Veterans: Phoenix International Raceway's race has fallen on or around Veterans Day for nearly the past 15 years. This weekend, the track will be recognizing veterans throughout the weekend for the DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans on Saturday, Nov. 14 and the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 on Sunday, Nov. 15. For the second year-in-a-row, PIR partnered with Disabled American Veterans to present the DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans NASCAR XFINITY Series Race on Saturday, Nov. 14 and will be hosting and recognizing US military veterans during pre-race ceremonies. As part of their outreach, the track has been running a donation campaign to raise money to support the DAV's efforts to educate and assist US military veterans and their families.
On Sunday, Nov. 15, all five major branches of the US military will be represented during pre-race ceremonies prior to the start of the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup race in a show of patriotism. The US Air Force will even be performing an induction ceremony prior to driver introductions.
The honorary officials for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 will recognize several notable veterans. The Grand Marshal will be highly decorated US Navy Veteran and US Senator for the State of Arizona John McCain. US Marine Corps Veteran and former UFC Champion Brian Stann will act as Honorary Pace Car Driver, while the honorary Starter will be the 22-year US Army Veteran and Head of Veterans Affairs for Quicken Loans, Rob Ells. The Invocation given on Sunday prior to the start of the race will be delivered by Chaplain and retired National Guard member Colonel Daniel Butler courtesy of the University of Phoenix who with Quicken Loans and other PIR Partners donated tickets for Veterans to attend the race.
In cooperation with Luke Air Force Base, attendees at the race will enjoy the first-ever F-35 flyover highlighting the newest unit to be housed at the Glendale base while and the Honor and Remembrance flag will fly above the score tower.
NASCAR will host the 29th NASCAR Troops to the Track program of 2015, presented by Bank of America, when it welcomes a group of airmen from Luke Air Force Base to Phoenix International Raceway this weekend. The NASCAR Troops to the Track program is a season-long initiative that honors members of the military for their services and treats them to customized experiences at a NASCAR race.
In partnership with Honor and Remember, NASCAR will also welcome the Gold Star families of U.S. Army Spc. Thomas H. Byrd and U.S. Army Sgt. James Witkowski to Phoenix International Raceway. Spc. Byrd was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Georgia, and was killed Oct. 15, 2005, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Witkowski was assigned to the 729th Transportation Company, Army Reserve, Fresno, California, and died Oct. 26, 2005, of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his Humvee during convoy operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Additionally, Comcast, the title sponsor of the NASCAR XFINITY Series, will host approximately 75 military veterans and guests, all of whom are from Arizona, at the DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans. Comcast worked with local VetNet chapters in Arizona to select the veterans invited to the race.(PIR)(11-12-2015)

Phoenix International Raceway announces fan guidelines, traffic info: Phoenix International Raceway is encouraging fans to prepare for race day traffic by arriving early and enjoying the full NASCAR experience during the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 event weekend, Nov. 12-15. In addition to the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 on Sunday, Nov. 15 at 12:30 p.m. (local), the race weekend at PIR will include the DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, Nov. 14 at 2 p.m., the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Friday, Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. and the Casino Arizona 100 NASCAR K&N Series West race on Thursday, Nov. 12 at 5:30 p.m..
FAN GUIDELINES A NASCAR weekend at ZOOMTOWN, U.S.A., is an experience like no other. Expect exciting racing on the track and a fun party atmosphere throughout the raceway. Whether you are a die-hard fan cheering on your favorite driver or a first-time fan catching NASCAR fever, PIR is the place for your entertainment. Expect to have a great time while taking part in the interactive displays on our fan midway or experiencing great live entertainment on one of our many stages. A full list of fan guidelines, including when to arrive, what to expect, recommended attire, what you can or cannot bring and a full list of activities scheduled throughout race weekend is available by visiting www.PhoenixRaceway.com and selecting the "Visiting PIR" tab at the top of the homepage and browsing to the "PIR 101: Raceday FAQ's" page.
TRAFFIC Phoenix International Raceway, in collaboration with the Department of Public Safety, Arizona Department of Transportation, Maricopa County's Department of Transportation and Sheriff's Office, and the cities of Avondale and Goodyear, recommend the following guidelines when traveling to and from the raceway:
· When exiting I-10, westbound or eastbound, be sure to follow the signage and traffic plan marked out to guide you to the track for the quickest and safest route. During the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 event weekend at PIR, traffic safety will deploy more than 4,000 traffic cones, 600 barricades, approximately 75 people, and numerous special signs and vehicles to help ensure safe travel for the nearly 100,000 fans heading to the track.
· Race fans can call 511 and press *7 when prompted for traffic updates. Additionally, fans can check for traffic updates on Twitter at Twitter.com/PhoenixRaceway.
· On Sunday, the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 will conclude at approximately 3 p.m. with the heaviest outbound flow of traffic expected to take place from 3 to 6 p.m. During this period, motorists traveling on I-10 will experience intermittent closing of Exit 131 (Avondale Boulevard) to allow for the successful egress of race traffic.
PARK 'N RIDE ENCOURAGED FOR SUNDAY Due to the expected race day traffic on Sunday, Nov. 15, PIR and local authorities are encouraging fans to utilize the highly efficient Park 'N Ride program. Park 'N Ride is located at the Ak-Chin Pavilion, just two blocks north of I-10 on 83rd Avenue (Exit 135). All NASCAR fans heading to PIR are advised to enter at the 83rd Avenue entrance and park on Pavilion grounds. From there, a shuttle from First Student Charter of Phoenix will transport patrons to a location near Gate 4 at the track. Pick-up after the race will be from the same location. Park 'N Ride services will be available from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., giving all NASCAR fans an alternate transportation option, before and after the race. The first shuttle will depart at 7:30 a.m. The raceway opens to the public Sunday at 8 a.m. Cost for parking and shuttle services to and from PIR is $7 per car for fans without PIR-issued parking passes. Guests with PIR-issued parking passes or with government-issued disability parking tags can utilize the Park 'N Ride at no charge. ADA accessible buses are available.
PARKING Fans driving their own vehicles to the track should remember that their parking pass determines the exits they should take from I-10 to the race. Motorists who take the wrong routes may face major delays as they approach the track. Phoenix International Raceway is proud to offer nearly 900 disabled parking spaces on our property, and all fans who purchase a wheelchair-accessible seat to the race will receive a parking pass for the ADA lot. PIR provides a free tram system that operates along the southern edge of the facility. Guests who utilize the tram system will be dropped off near the entry gate. ONLY those fans with PIR-issued parking passes and government-issued disability parking permits should exit at Avondale Boulevard (Exit 131). Refer to the reverse side of the parking pass for directions to and from the track. Fans without passes who plan to use the free general parking lots must exit the roadway at either Litchfield Road (Exit 128) or Estrella Parkway (Exit 126) and travel south following directions.
DIRECTIONS Directions to free parking lots - Eastbound: Take Estrella Parkway (Exit 126). Drive south approximately five miles to Vineyard Road. Follow the signs and directions from officers and deputies to the parking lots.
Directions to free parking lots - Westbound: Take Litchfield Road (Exit 128). Drive south approximately two miles to MC 85. Drive west on MC 85 approximately one mile to Bullard Avenue. Drive south on Bullard Avenue and follow the signs and directions from officers and deputies to the parking lots.
Directions for Local Traffic - MC 85 (Buckeye Road): Local fans who travel on MC 85 (Buckeye Road) should exit on Litchfield Road or Bullard Avenue. Fans with special passes and permits only may use Avondale Boulevard.(PIR)(11-11-2015)

"X FACTOR USA" Star singing National Anthem before XFINITY race at Phoenix: Fans at Phoenix International Raceway will be in for a treat at the DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans when Drew Ryniewicz, one of the breakout stars of FOX's talent-search show "X Factor USA," performs the national anthem on stage before the start of the race. The talented young singer from Chino Valley burst onto the national scene in 2011 as a 14-year-old when she captured the attention of millions of fans with her unique and soulful renditions of songs such as Justin Bieber's Baby on "X Factor USA." Her popularity with the show's viewers was so strong that host Simon Cowell declared that she was "now known simply as 'Drew.'" Since her season on "X Factor USA," Drew has released her first EP, "Hello it's Me," performed across the country, and spent time in Nashville and Los Angeles writing and recording. She recently released a new original single titled Ugly off of a new album set to debut in early 2016. She has also been on tour for the last several months performing and speaking to teens about bullying.(PIR)(11-6-2015)

Phoenix race weekend entertainment announced: A full lineup of race weekend entertainment has been announced for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 at Phoenix International Raceway featuring theme nights at the Cantina with bands entertaining fans throughout the weekend. Each night, the Cantina will be highlighted by a different theme for PIR fans to enjoy. Thursday, Nov. 12, will be Country Night at the Cantina with entertainment by Hillbilly Deluxe and Harry Luge Band. Appropriately, Friday the 13 will be Zombie Night at the Cantina with music from Badmotorfinger, while Saturday, Nov. 14 will be highlighted by METALHEAD and special musical guests for 80's Night. On Friday and Saturday night, the American Born Moonshine Bar will be open on the Cantina patio featuring specialty moonshine drinks.
Prior to the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 on Sunday, Nov. 15, powerhouse rock band Everclear will also be performing a free concert for any fan with a grandstand ticket. The group, who recently released their ninth studio album titled Black Is The New Black, will entertain fans in the midway area at 10:30am/mt.
Famous for deconstructing popular music, DJ Michaelis will be back this fall to put his own twist on the traditional driver introductions. The West Coast DJ holds big room residences in cities around the world including Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, Moscow and Bali and has new Trap and Progressive House music released this year.
Hillbilly Deluxe will officially kick off race weekend entertainment on Thursday, Nov. 12 from 7 - 8:30 p.m. at the Cantina. Harry Luge Band will hit the Cantina stage on Thursday from 9:00-11:00pm, and will return on Friday, Nov. 13 after the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at the Fan Midway stage.
Taking the stage on Friday from 9:00-11:00pm at the Cantina will be Badmotorfinger. On Saturday, Nov. 14, concerts will begin at the Cantina at 7:00pm with artists to include METALHEAD and other special musical guests.(PIR)(11-5-2015)

Sen. John McCain to serve as grand marshal at Phoenix: The fall race at Phoenix International Raceway has traditionally coincided with Veterans Day, and the Grand Marshal for this year's Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will be one of the most recognizable veterans in America. United States Senator John McCain, a highly decorated veteran of the Vietnam War and lifelong public servant, will say the most famous words in motorsports - "Drivers, start your engines!" - before the green flag falls at PIR on Sunday, Nov. 15. Grandstand seats for the race are officially sold out, but general admission seating on the Hillside remains available at PhoenixRaceway.com and by phone at 866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(10-30-2015)

Brian Stann named honorary pace car driver at Phoenix: The honorary pace car driver for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 has no shortage of experience in both highly competitive and high-pressure situations. Brian Stann, President and CEO of Hire Heroes USA, is a decorated Marine Corps veteran and a former WEC Light Heavyweight Champion and top UFC Middleweight. He will lead the field to the green flag at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, November 15, 2015. Stann's appearance at PIR is the result of a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment. Stann played middle linebacker for the U.S. Naval Academy and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Economics in 2003. He served two deployments with 3rd Battalion 2nd Marines in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and was awarded the Silver Star, the nation's third highest award for valor, for his actions near the Al-Romana Bridge during Operation MATADOR in May 2005. Stann's mixed martial arts fighting career began in 2003 in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP), where he earned black belt certification as an Instructor Trainer. He began fighting professionally in 2006, while on active duty in the Marine Corps. In 2008, he defeated Doug Marshall to become the WEC Light Heavyweight champion, and he debuted in the UFC in 2009. Stann retired from UFC fighting in 2013. Today, he is a nationally-recognized fight analyst and speaker, while also leading Hire Heroes USA, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers U.S. military members, veterans and their spouses to succeed in the civilian workforce. Recognized as a best-in-class veteran service organization by the USO, Call of Duty Endowment, and the George W. Bush Institute, Hire Heroes USA has confirmed more than 60 clients hired each week in 2015, a conversion rate of 45% from helped to hired.(PIR)(10-22-2015)

Grandstands sold out for Phoenix race: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced that the track's grandstands are sold out for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Nov. 15. The sellout occurred nearly a month ahead of race day, and it is the fifth-consecutive sellout for the fall race at PIR, making it arguably the toughest ticket in all of NASCAR. Although the grandstands are sold out for Sunday's race, race fans wishing to attend the final Eliminator race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup may still purchase general admission tickets to PIR's Hillside area. For fans looking to get up close to the action, or for first-time visitors to the track, Friday's and Saturday's races offer a great opportunity. All of the interactive displays and exhibits in the Fan Midway will be open both days as well, giving fans the opportunity to take in the full NASCAR race experience. Tickets for Friday and Saturday, as well as Sunday's Hillside area, may be purchased online at PhoenixRaceway.com or by phone at 866-408-RACE. Until Monday, Nov. 9, tickets for Friday's action start at $30 and Saturday tickets start at $35. On Nov. 9, "race week pricing" goes into effect and prices increase by $5 for each day. Parking at Phoenix International Raceway is free throughout the weekend.(PIR)(10-21-2015)

Harvick to appear at Budweiser Roll-Bar Club at Phoenix: Kevin Harvick, driver of the #4 Budweiser Chevy, is scheduled to appear at PIR's Budweiser ROLL-BAR Club for a moderated question and answer session before the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, November 15. The Budweiser ROLL-BAR Club, located on the west side of the track behind the Bobby Allison Grandstands, features the best in live entertainment each day throughout the entire Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend at PIR, as well as appearances by some of NASCAR's top personalities. Single-day tickets to the Budweiser ROLL-BAR Club are available for $99 on Saturday, November 14 and for $149 on Sunday, November 15. The additional purchase of a grandstand ticket is still required for track admission.(PIR)(10-17-2015)

Phoenix announces Sprint race date; tickets on sale Tickets for the Camping World 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekend, scheduled for March 11-13, 2016 at Phoenix International Raceway, go on sale Friday, Oct. 2. Tickets start at just $25 and may be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223). For the second-consecutive season, PIR's Spring race date coincides with Spring Break for nearly every school district and college in Arizona, making the Camping World 500 an ideal entertainment destination. Additionally, the race weekend will take place during Major League Baseball's Spring Training season. The Cactus League will once again feature 15 MLB teams across the Valley of the Sun. Headlining the race weekend, the Camping World 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will take place on Sunday, March 13, 2016. The race will again be a part of NASCAR's "West Coast Swing," in which America's premier racing series will compete in Las Vegas, Phoenix and Los Angeles in consecutive weeks. The Camping World 500 event weekend also features the Axalta Faster. Tougher. Brighter. 200 NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, March 12 and Gatorade Pole Qualifying for the Camping World 500 on Friday, March 11.(PIR)(10-2-2015)

Everclear to play pre-race concert at Phoenix: Fans coming to the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 at Phoenix International Raceway will be in for a treat prior to the race on Sunday, Nov. 15. That morning, the popular rock-n-roll group Everclear will perform a pre-race concert in the fan midway area at 10:30am/mt. The concert, which resulted from a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment, is just one part of race day excitement that is free to all fans with a grandstand ticket for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. The Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 is the final race in the Eliminator round of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. After the race, the field of championship contenders will be trimmed from eight hopefuls to the final four drivers that will race for the championship the next week. For over two decades, Everclear's sound has reflected the rock, post-punk, and singer/songwriter influences of Art Alexakis, including acts like X, the Replacements, the Pixies, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and Elvis Costello. The band found success with their first three albums on Capitol Records, Sparkle and Fade, So Much for the Afterglow, and Songs from an American Movie Vol. One: Learning How to Smile, which were all certified platinum. Earlier this year, the band released their ninth studio album titled Black Is The New Black via The End Records/ADA.(PIR)(10-2-2015)

Watson to replace Confederate flag on General Lee with U.S. flag: Bubba Watson, the world's third-ranked golfer, announced on Twitter on Thursday afternoon that he would have a U.S. flag painted over the Confederate battle flag on the roof of the General Lee, the car used on the TV show "The Dukes of Hazzard." Watson bought the 1969 Dodge Charger used on the 1980s television comedy for $110,000 at the Barrett-Jackson Collectible Car Auction in 2012. Watson's announcement came a day after the television network TV Land announced it had pulled reruns of "The Dukes of Hazzard" out of its programming lineup. Last week, Warner Bros. Consumer Products announced toy replicas of the General Lee would no longer feature the Confederate battle flag on the roof. In 2012, Watson had planned to drive the General Lee during the ceremonial parade lap for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Subway Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceway as part of his duties as honorary race official. However, NASCAR changed its mind, citing the flag on the roof, and decided "it was not in the best interest of our sport."(Alabama Live)(7-3-2015)

PIR to be renamed in honor of Jeff Gordon for fall race: Phoenix International Raceway is about to become Jeff Gordon Raceway. For one day. PIR will honor the four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champion by formally renaming the 1-mile oval in his name for the Nov. 15 Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500, azcentral sports has learned. Gordon, who has four career PIR wins, says he doesn't plan to drive after this season, which would make Phoenix his penultimate race. An official announcement is expected Friday. "We were thinking of it like an athlete getting the keys to the city," PIR President Bryan Sperber said. "It (the idea) took off from there. Starting with the quirky layout of our track, it seems like Phoenix always does things a little different.(Arizona Republic)(6-12-2015)

Tickets on sale at Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway announced that tickets for the semifinal race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the "Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500", went on sale Friday, May 29. Tickets start at just $25 and can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223). The popular fall race at PIR historically sells out in advance and features a full weekend of NASCAR action, including racing from the top-three series in NASCAR. The Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race takes place on Sunday, Nov. 15. The event weekend also features the DAV 200 Honoring America's Veterans NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday, Nov. 14 following the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Friday, Nov. 13. The weekend kicks off with the Casino Arizona 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series-West race on Thursday, Nov 12. Race fans can take advantage of PIR's 'Value Pricing' period and receive extra savings by purchasing their tickets for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 early. The 'Value Pricing' period takes place May 29 through July 5. Regular pricing begins on July 6 and runs through Monday, Nov. 10 when walkup pricing goes into effect for race week.(PIR)(6-1-2015)

CARBuretor Crunch sandwich available at Phoenix: It's Spring Break, NASCAR-style, and fans coming to the CampingWorld.com 500 race weekend are encouraged to take a bite out of the CARBuretor Crunch, the first-ever signature item of Phoenix International Raceway. A collaboration between PIR and Americrown, the item is a deep-fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich encrusted with Cap'n Crunch, covered with bacon crumbles, fresh sliced bananas and caramel drizzle. The CARBuretor Crunch, which comes in at roughly 900 calories, will be exclusively sold in the new ZOOMTOWN Food Court located in the heart of the Midway. Fans can purchase a single CARBuretor Crunch for $7, or a double order for $13, and will have social media bragging rights with a photo station declaring, "I ate the CARBuretor Crunch." Also featured at the new ZOOMTOWN Food Court will be the Bootleggers bar, in addition to a variety of other food options including bar-b-que, hot dogs, quesadillas and tacos. The ZOOMTOWN Food Court offers free WiFi and covered seating to patrons.(PIR)(3-11-2015)

PIR considering SAFER upgrade to safety tire wall: NASCAR drivers apparently won't know until after Sunday's CampingWorld.com 500 if the tires stacked inside Phoenix International Raceway's Turn 4, near pit entrance, will be replaced with a permanent SAFER barrier to soften impact against the concrete wall. Safety - specifically, increased use of so-called "soft" wall technology - has been a major issue since Kyle Busch suffered leg and foot fractures last month at Daytona International Speedway. He's sidelined indefinitely. Jeff Gordon avoided injury after a hard hit two weeks ago at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Both struck walls not protected with SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barriers, first used at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2002, which reduces G-force impact kinetic energy by over 50%. A NASCAR official last week recommended the 160-foot long tire wall - four high and two deep - after a track inspection. "The way we're going to approach this is work closely with NASCAR and ISC (International Speedway Corp., PIR's parent) on a thorough and updated review," said PIR President Bryan Sperber. "We'll be thoughtful about it. It will be a constant evolution." SAFER costs about $500 a foot. Race cars have sometimes bounced off tire walls and back into oncoming traffic. "If that was a concern, it wasn't mentioned to me," Sperber said.(Arizona Republic)(3-10-2015)

PIR's Park 'N Ride program available for fans: Phoenix International Raceway has announced the operating schedule for its Park 'N Ride program - encouraging race fans to take advantage of the convenient shuttle service when traveling to and from the CampingWorld.com 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, March 15. After much success in recent years, the Park 'N Ride program returns to Ak-Chin Pavilion, located just two blocks north of I-10 on 83rd Avenue (Exit 135) at 2121 N. 83rd Ave. All NASCAR fans heading to PIR are encouraged to enter at the 83rd Avenue entrance and park on Pavilion grounds, from where shuttle bus service (provided by First Student Charter of Phoenix) will take you to the Gate 4 area at the track.
Cost for parking and shuttle services to PIR will remain at $7 per car. Those with a PIR-issued parking pass may ride for free. Shuttle buses will take guests to PIR via preferential traffic routes, offering guests an earlier arrival to the facility. With the green flag dropping on the CampingWorld.com 500 at 12:30 p.m. PST, Park 'N Ride services will be available for 12 hours - from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. - on Sunday, giving all NASCAR fans an alternate transportation option before and after the race. The first shuttle will depart at 7:30 a.m., with PIR gates open to the public at 8 a.m.
Tickets for the CampingWorld.com 500 are available starting at $25; and tickets and pit passes may be purchased online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the track ticket office.(PIR)(3-10-2015)

PIR invites fans to leave a note for Gordon: NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon left his mark on Phoenix International Raceway - literally - when he tore up the first chunks of asphalt at the start/finish line in April, 2011 to kick off PIR's repaving project. With Gordon embarking on his final full-time season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, PIR is inviting fans to write a note to him on the start/finish line prior to the CampingWorld.com 500 on Sunday, March 15. Tickets for the CampingWorld.com 500 are available starting at $25; and tickets and pit passes may be purchased online at PhoenixRaceway.com, by phone at 866-408-RACE (7223) or in person at the track ticket office.(PIR)(3-10-2015)

Former Olympian Dan Henderson to serve as pace car driver at Phoenix: Two-time Olympian and current UFC star Dan Henderson will lead the field to the green flag behind the wheel of the Official Toyota Camry Pace Car at the start of the CampingWorld.com 500 at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, March 15. Henderson's appearance was the result of a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment. As the official pace car driver, the 44-year old mixed martial artist will take an honorary lap around the one-mile oval. "I'm excited to get behind the wheel and pull out onto the track at Phoenix International Raceway and help start the CampingWorld.com 500," Henderson said. "NASCAR drivers are the best in the world at what they do, and I can't wait to see them in my rear view mirror just before they take the green flag. It's a great honor and it's going to be a huge thrill."
Henderson represented the United States in the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games. He also wrestled collegiately at Arizona State and was a three-time USA University Greco-Roman National Champion. He began his mixed martial arts career in 1997, winning the championship in that year's Brazil Open Lightweight Tournament. Henderson owns more major tournament titles than any other athlete in MMA history, winning four different international events in three weight divisions - heavyweight, light heavyweight and middleweight. He is the only man in MMA history to hold the title in multiple weight classes at the same time. In addition to his duties behind the wheel, Henderson will make a promotional appearance at PIR prior to the race on Sunday, March 15. For more information on timing and other appearances, please visit PhoenixRaceway.com. Tickets for the CampingWorld.com 500 on March 15 start at just $25. For tickets and information, visit PhoenixRaceway.com or call 866-408-RACE (7223)(Phoenix Raceway)(3-9-2015)

Phoenix International Raceway to install tire packs: Statement from Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber on safety barrier system; "Following a review of the existing safety barriers at Phoenix International Raceway (PIR) with ISC and NASCAR officials, PIR will supplement its existing barrier system. A new tire pack barrier will be installed along the interior wall of Turn 4 in advance of the CampingWorld.com 500 race weekend. The additional protective barrier represents PIR's ongoing commitment to providing a safe racing environment for its drivers, teams and fans. PIR will continue to work in tandem with NASCAR to expedite the adoption of additional impact-absorbing technologies, as deemed necessary, at our facility."(PIR)(3-5-2015)

Tonic to perform at PIR: Fans coming to the CampingWorld.com 500 at Phoenix International Raceway will be in for a treat prior to the race. That morning, the popular Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum rock group Tonic will perform a pre-race concert in the fan midway area at 10:30am. The concert, which resulted from a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment, is just one part of race-day excitement and is free to all fans with a grandstand ticket for the CampingWorld.com 500. Tickets for the race start at $25 and are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com or by phone at 1-866-408-RACE (7223). The group, which includes singer and guitarist Emerson Hart, guitarist Jeff Russo and bassist Dan Lavery, has earned a reputation as one of the best live acts in rock music after years of touring. Merging the raw honesty of rock with unabashed melody, Tonic has entertained millions of fans around the world.(PIR)(2-18-2015)

Axalta to sponsor Phoenix XFINITY race: Phoenix International Raceway announced that Axalta Coating Systems will be recognized as the title sponsor of the track's March NASCAR XFINITY Series race. The Axalta Faster. Tougher. Brighter. 200, a two-year entitlement, will officially kick off the NASCAR XFINITY series at PIR on Saturday, March 14 at 1:00pm local time. Axalta Coating Systems will be the official automotive and industrial paint of PIR. The leading global manufacturer of liquid and powder coatings, Axalta has a long history in the racing industry. In addition to being the sponsor of the #24 Axalta Chevy SS, driven by Jeff Gordon, Axalta is also the official paint supplier of Hendrick Motorsports and Stewart-Haas Racing. The primer base coat is also used for JR Motorsports XFINITY cars, Kyle Busch Motorsports XFINITY cars and Kasey Kahne's dirt track sprint car.(PIR)(2-11-2015)

PIR upgrades put on hold: Even though the grandstands are again sold out for today's Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 Phoenix International Raceway's parent company, ISC, hasn't approved a budget for the much-needed improvements. This despite NASCAR Chairman Brian France, whose career began managing Tucson Raceway Park, saying he has a "special interest" in his series' success here. ISC Chairwoman Lesa France Kennedy told azcentral sports two years ago PIR was second only to Daytona International Speedway for redevelopment. ISC is spending $400 million for what it calls a "re-imagining" of its flagship Daytona track, scheduled for completion in 2016. Millions more have been committed to repaving the Watkins Glen, N.Y., road course next year. PIR's needs include new and more comfortable grandstands with better sight lines, concessions, restrooms, scoreboard, competitor garages, parking, medical center and victory lane. Although $10 million was spent in 2011 for repaving and some infrastructure work, PIR hasn't kept-up with the trend of brand-new or upgraded Valley venues. These include the $100 million Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, $84 million Cubs Park, $20 million remodeling of HoHoKam Park, $15 million TPC Scottsdale makeover and Sun Devil Stadium's $225 million renovation. Public funds have been used for some of these projects. Avondale paid to connect the city's water and sewer system to PIR. "We're going to start to try to actively identify the opportunity and get all the approvals," Sperber said. "It's a long road. Things are falling into alignment to create an environment to potentially move forward."(Arizona Republic)(11-9-2014)

Statement from Phoenix International Raceway regarding the power outages at Truck race: We are extremely disappointed that tonight's race was delayed and ultimately shortened by failures in the local power grid. We want to thank the devoted race fans who stayed throughout the race, however PIR and NASCAR both agreed that it was in the best interest of the drivers to call an end to the race after the second power outage, as safety of the competitors is paramount. While we appreciate the efforts of APS and its repair crews to restore service as quickly as possible, having to end the race prematurely is not the experience that our fans expect and deserve.(PIR)(11-8-2014)

Grandstands sold out for Phoenix Cup race: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced today that the track's grandstands are sold out for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Nov. 9. "The excitement generated by the new Chase for the Sprint Cup format and by Phoenix hosting the final Eliminator race in the Chase has made the demand for tickets very strong," Sperber said. "Every race, we hear from drivers and team owners how much they enjoy coming to Phoenix and racing in front of sold-out grandstands, and we are grateful to our fans for their ongoing support of Phoenix International Raceway." Although the grandstands are sold out for Sunday's race, race fans wishing to attend the final Eliminator race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup may still purchase general admission tickets to PIR's Hillside area. Great seats are still available for the DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans NASCAR Nationwide Series race, Saturday, Nov. 8 at 2 p.m. MST at PIR, with prices starting as low as $35 before Monday, Nov. 3. On Monday, race week pricing goes into effect and tickets begin at $40. Saturday's action also features the final "happy hour" practice session for the Sprint Cup Series race teams. The Friday, Nov. 9 Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race also has excellent seats remaining, with prices starting at $30 before Monday and $35 during race week. Tickets for Friday's race also include admission to Gatorade Pole Qualifying for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500, as well as practice sessions for the Sprint Cup Series and Nationwide Series, giving fans a chance to see all three national series on the same day. Tickets for Friday and Saturday, as well as Sunday's Hillside area, may be purchased online at PhoenixRaceway.com or by phone at 866-408-RACE.(PIR)(11-2-2014)

March Phoenix Tickets on sale: Phoenix International Raceway announced tickets for its 2015 spring race weekend, headlined by the Camping World 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race are on-sale. Tickets start at just $25 and can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223). When NASCAR announced the 2015 schedule in August, it included a change in PIR's spring race date. The Camping World 500 race weekend is now the fourth race of the NASCAR season and will take place March 13-15, 2015. That date coincides with Spring Break for nearly every school district and college in Arizona, making the Camping World 500 an ideal entertainment destination. The event weekend also features the NASCAR XFINITY Series 200 race on Saturday, March 14 and the Toyota 120 NASCAR Toyota Mexico Series race on Friday, March 13. Tickets for Friday's Toyota 120 race also include admission to Gatorade Pole Qualifying for the Camping World 500. Race fans can take advantage of PIR's 'Value Pricing' period through December 31 and receive a $5 discount off of the face value of most seats by purchasing their tickets for the races during the Camping World 500 event weekend early. Beginning January 1, 2015, ticket prices will return to regular pricing, with event week pricing going into effect on Monday, March 9. Race fans who wish to secure their seats for the entire 2015 PIR schedule can also purchase season tickets, which start at $99.(PIR)(10-29-2014)

Buckcherry headlines Phoenix race weekend: A pre-race concert by the popular rock band Buckcherry headlines a packed entertainment lineup for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekend at Phoenix International Raceway. In addition to Buckcherry's performance on Sunday from 11-11:45am on the Budweiser ROLL-BAR stage, race fans at PIR will be treated to performances by well-known local acts Whiskey's Quicker, Harry Luge, Jr. and Chad Freeman & Redline, along with the Las Vegas-based WolfCreek Band. Whiskey's Quicker kicks off the weekend with a performance in SPEED Cantina on Thursday night from 7:00 - 8:30pm Formed in 2011, the Phoenix-based group is one of the most popular rock cover bands in Arizona and has been a mainstay at Phoenix International Raceway ever since. Friday's music lineup is headlined by a post-race concert on the Budweiser ROLL-BAR stage by WolfCreek Band. Harry Luge, Jr. will hit the SPEED Cantina stage on Thursday and Friday from 9:00-11:00pm each night, and again on Saturday from 7:00-8:30pm. Chad Freeman & Redline will headline Saturday's concert lineup, following Harry Luge on stage at 9:00pm in SPEED Cantina.(PIR)(10-23-2014)

Nationwide race at Phoenix to honor Disabled American Veterans: Phoenix International Raceway announced that DAV (Disabled American Veterans) will be recognized as the title sponsor of the track's November NASCAR Nationwide Series race. The DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans will be the featured event on the third day of PIR's Veterans Day race weekend. The DAV 200 - Honoring America's Veterans will be the semifinal race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series schedule. With the Nationwide Series title on the line, the green flag will drop at 5:00pm/et on Saturday, November 8. DAV's National Commander, Ron Hope, said this race weekend is a fitting addition to the many events across the country that remember America's fallen, wounded, ill or injured. "This is the time of year our country pauses to reflect on those who ensured we enjoy the freedoms we sometimes take for granted'" said Hope. "This event, in addition to the excitement of attendance for a semi-final event, will make veterans aware of the free services available to them and educate the public on volunteer opportunities and other ways they can say 'thanks' to those who served."(PIR)(10-15-2014)

Several teams to test at Phoenix: Nearly a dozen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers, including seven of the 12 drivers who advanced to the Contender round of the Chase for the Sprint Cup, will conduct a private testing session at Phoenix International Raceway on Tuesday, Oct. 14 and Wednesday, Oct. 15. The testing session will be closed to the public. The test will allow teams to gather data in preparation for the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at PIR on Sunday, Nov. 9. As the final Eliminator round race, after which the Chase field will be cut from eight to the final four drivers for the Championship round, the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 carries added significance this season. Drivers testing include: #5-Kasey Kahne, #24-Jeff Gordon, #48-Jimmie Johnson, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #11-Denny Hamlin, #18-Kyle Busch, #20-Matt Kenseth, #15-Clint Bowyer, #55-Brian Vickers, #66-Brett Moffit, #95-Michael McDowell, Camping World Truck Series driver #00-Cole Custer.(PIR)(10-10-2014)

Chuck Liddell to drive pace car at Phoenix: Former UFC World Light Heavyweight Champion Chuck Liddell will lead the field to the green flag behind the wheel of the Official Toyota Pace Car at the start of the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, Nov 9. Liddell's appearance was the result of a partnership between PIR and Niner Sports & Entertainment. As the official pace car driver for the semifinal race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the 44-year old mixed martial artist will take an honorary lap around the one-mile oval. Regarded as one of the greatest light heavyweights in the history of professional mixed martial arts, Liddell quickly gained recognition as an elite fighter, rising to become the light-heavyweight champion of the world, and inducted to the UFC Hall of Fame in 2009. Now as a husband, father, and superstar, Liddell is able to inspire others through his recent autobiography titled "Iceman: My Fighting Life," published in 2008, as well as traveling all over the world for public speaking engagements and promotional events. In addition to his duties behind the wheel, Liddell will make a promotional appearance at PIR prior to the race on Sunday, Nov 9. Tickets for the Quicken Loans Race of Heroes 500 on Nov. 9 start at just $25. For tickets and information, visit PhoenixRaceway.com or call 866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(9-14-2014)

Phoenix race tickets on sale Friday: Phoenix International Raceway announced that tickets for the final race of its 50th Anniversary season, the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR race weekend will go on-sale May 30. Tickets for NASCAR's semifinal race weekend start at just $25 and can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 866-408-RACE (7223). The popular fall weekend at PIR historically sells out and features a full weekend of NASCAR action, including from the semifinal races in each of NASCAR's top three series, headlined by the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Nov. 9. The event weekend also features the NASCAR Nationwide Series 200 race on Saturday, Nov. 8 and the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Friday, Nov. 7. The weekend of racing kicks off with the Casino Arizona 100 - the championship race in the K&N Pro Series-West - on Thursday, Nov. 6.(PIR)(5-29-2014)

Phoenix International Raceway to release book: Phoenix International Raceway has been a part of the motor sports scene since 1964. From its genesis as an open-wheel destination through its present-day status as a stock car haven, the one-mile desert oval has built a reputation as a unique challenge for drivers and as a memory maker for all who have visited over the last 50 years. To celebrate and acknowledge the track's golden anniversary, PIR president Bryan R. Sperber announced today the release of a limited-edition commemorative book documenting the past 50 years. 'Phoenix At 50: A Half-Century of Racing' is a comprehensive journey through the last five decades of racing in the Valley of the Sun. Comprised of a collection of work by writers from varying backgrounds that have shared their talents to bring these stories together - including a foreword from 'The King,' Richard Petty - the book tells the stories and the secrets that the track has held for fifty years. The book will be available for purchase at PIR merchandise locations throughout the track during the Feb. 28 - March 2 NASCAR event weekend. After the race weekend, the book will be available for purchase at the PIR ticket window and on Amazon.com.(PIR)(2-28-2014)

P.O.D. to perform concert prior to Profit on CNBC 500: Well-known band P.O.D. (Payable on Death) will energize the crowd at Phoenix International Raceway with a live concert prior to The Profit on CNBC 500, Presented by Small Business Fueling America NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race on Sunday, March 2. The concert beings at 11:00 a.m. MST on the Budweiser ROLL-BAR main stage in the fan midway. Live entertainment on the Budweiser ROLL-BAR main stage is available to all grandstand ticket holders. Tickets to the Budweiser ROLL-BAR Club are available for advance purchase at $99 for March 1 and $149 for March 2. Tickets to Budweiser ROLL-BAR and all of the exciting experiences at PIR are available online at PhoenixRaceway.com, or by calling 1-866-408-RACE (7223).(Phoenix Raceway)(2-28-2014)

Wendell Scott decal on cars in Phoenix: Since 2010, NASCAR has designated the first race weekend in March as a time to commemorate Wendell Scott's first career start. Scott is the only African- American driver to win a Grand National (now Sprint Cup) Series event in NASCAR history. Cars in all four NASCAR series competing at Phoenix International Raceway (NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, NASCAR Mexico Toyota Series, NASCAR Nationwide Series and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) will sport a commemorative decal. The decals will be applied to the B or C post of each vehicle during the inspection processes throughout the entire weekend.(NASCAR)(2-27-2014)

Marcus Lemonis, star of CNBC's 'The Profit,' will serve as the grand marshal at Phoenix: Marcus Lemonis, star of CNBC's 'The Profit,' will serve as the grand marshal and honorary starter for The Profit on CNBC 500 Presented by Small Business Fueling America NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, March 2. On 'The Profit,' Lemonis, the Chairman and CEO of Camping World and Good Sam Enterprises, steps in to save struggling businesses by investing his own money and teaching the owners his secrets to business success. The second season of 'The Profit' premiers on Tuesday, Feb. 25 on CNBC.
As grand marshal, Lemonis will say the four most famous words in racing - "Drivers, start your engines!" prior to the start of the race. After giving the command, Lemonis will head to the flag stand where he will wave the green flag to officially start The Profit on CNBC 500 Presented by Small Business Fueling America.
Lemonis headlines an exciting pre-race schedule. Fan favorite and Phoenix-native trumpet soloist Jesse Maguire will perform the national anthem, while UFC fighter and FOX Sports analyst Chael Sonnen will be the honorary pace car driver.
The popular rock group P.O.D. (Payable On Death) will perform on the pre-race stage beginning at 11:00 a.m. MST. Adding to the scene during pre-race will be an appearance by the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales, who will make a parade lap along the front stretch prior to the start of the race.
Tickets to all events throughout The Profit on CNBC 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend at Phoenix International Raceway are available on PhoenixRaceway.com or by calling 1-866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(2-24-2014)

Chael Sonnen has been named PIR Honorary Pace Car Driver: UFC fighter and FOX Sports analyst Chael Sonnen has been named Honorary Pace Car Driver for The Profit on CNBC 500, Presented by Small Business Fueling American NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, March 2 PIR President Bryan R. Sperber announced today. Sonnen, also known as "The American Gangster, will participate in pre-race ceremonies and will lead the pack of cars on Sunday to the green flag. In addition Sonnen, brought to PIR through a partnership with Niner Sports & Entertainment, will be making appearances throughout the day on Sunday at PIR.(Phoenix Raceway)(2-24-2014)

Phoenix International Raceway invites fans to 'Memory Lane': As Phoenix International Raceway prepares to kick off its 50th anniversary season, the track is inviting fans to take a stroll down, 'Memory Lane, Presented by BlueMedia' a one-of-a-kind historical exhibit featuring race cars and memorabilia with connections to the track's past. Located in the fan midway area behind the Bobby Allison Grandstand, 'Memory Lane' will showcase 15 historic cars, including the 1964 roadster driven to victory by A.J. Foyt in the first professional race ever held at PIR in March, 1964. Admission to the exhibit is free to everyone with a grandstand ticket. The exhibit, which is housed in a tent provided by Classic Party Rentals, will be open beginning when the track's gates open each day during race weekend. Other cars on display will include Alan Kulwicki's #7 Zerex Thunderbird that won the first-ever NASCAR Winston Cup Series race at PIR in November, 1988, and a USAC Silver Crown car driven by Tony Stewart in the 1993 Copper World Classic at PIR.
Memorabilia on display will include several trophies which were won at PIR, including the Bobby Ball Trophy which was awarded annually to the winner of the Bobby Ball Memorial in PIR's early years. Additionally, several fire suits and helmets worn by drivers through the years will be on display, along with programs, posters, photos, pins and pennants from past races. Many of the items are generously on loan from the Arizona Open Wheel Motorsports Museum.
Several legendary drivers and racing personalities will make special appearances on the stage in Memory Lane through the weekend to share their favorite stories and memories from racing at Phoenix through the years. A full schedule of appearances will be announced at a later date.
Historic cars on display at Memory Lane:
· Roadster driven by Phoenix racing legend Bobby Ball in the 1960's
· 1964 roadster driven to victory by A.J. Foyt in the first professional race at PIR
· 1973 Chevelle Grand National driven by Bobby Allison
· 1988 Zerex Thunderbird driven to victory by Alan Kulwicki in the inaugural NASCAR Winston Cup Series race at PIR
· 1988 Folgers Chevrolet driven by Ken Schrader, the all-time winningest driver at PIR
· 1989 Mello Yello Chevrolet Lumina used in the filming of "Days of Thunder" at PIR
· 1991 USAC Silver Crown car driven by Jeff Gordon in the Copper World Classic
· 1991 Havoline Ford driven to victory at PIR by Davey Allison
· 1992 Hooters Thunderbird driven during Alan Kulwicki's Winston Cup-winning season
· 1993 USAC Silver Crown car driven by Tony Stewart in the Copper World Classic
· 1995 Goodwrench Chevrolet truck driven by Mike Skinner in inaugural NASCAR truck race at PIR
· 1996 Goodwrench Chevrolet driven by Dale Earnhardt
· 1997 USAC Midget driven by Billy Boat in the Copper World Classic
· 1997 Miller Genuine Draft Ford, known as "Midnight," driven by Rusty Wallace
· 2003 Grand National Daytona Prototype driven to victory on the old road course at PIR by Hurley Heywood and J.C. France
Tickets to the exciting Feb 27-March 2 The Profit on CNBC 500 NASCAR event weekend are available with Sprint Cup Series ticket prices starting at just $25. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.PhoenixRaceway.com or call 866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(2-23-2014)

Phoenix International Raceway 50th anniversary logo on the #95: Phoenix International Raceway will team with local driver Michael McDowell to kick off the race track's 50th anniversary in true NASCAR style with a sponsorship of McDowell's car, PIR President Bryan R. Sperber announced. PIR's 50th anniversary logo will adorn McDowell's #95 Leavine Family Racing Ford Fusion during The Profit on CNBC 500 Presented by Small Business Fueling America NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, March 2. "Growing up in Phoenix, PIR has always held a special place in my heart," McDowell said. "To be able to play a role in celebrating the track's 50th anniversary is a tremendous honor and is something I'll always remember." The logo will be prominently featured on the left and right rear quarter panels of the car, providing tremendous visibility. "We are thrilled to be able to support Michael McDowell this year and tie in our 50th anniversary," Sperber said. "Having grown up here in the Valley, Michael and his family know how important PIR is to our community. To be able to support his NASCAR Sprint Cup campaign during our golden anniversary season is very exciting for us." McDowell, a Glendale native, is in his first year with Concord, N.C.-based Leavine Family Racing and his seventh year of full-time competition in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Season tickets for 2014 are available by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com or calling 866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(2-18-2014)

The Profit on CNBC 500 named title sponsor for March Phoenix race: Phoenix International Raceway announced that CNBC's "The PROFIT," the popular entrepreneurial reality series returning for a second season on February 25 at 10:00pm/et/pt on CNBC, has joined the track's team of corporate partners. As part of the new relationship, "The PROFIT" will act as the official title sponsor for the track's March 2 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event: 'The Profit on CNBC 500, Presented by Small Business Fueling America.'
The announcement was made today on CNBC by Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber and Marcus Lemonis, serial entrepreneur and star of CNBC's "The Profit." Steve Phelps, NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, joined them for the announcement. "We are excited to partner with Marcus and his team at 'The PROFIT' and CNBC on our NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race next month," Sperber said. "Small businesses have been fueling NASCAR from its very beginning, so this partnership is a great match."
When Marcus Lemonis isn't running his multi-billion dollar company, Camping World, he goes on the hunt for struggling businesses that are desperate for cash. In the past 10 years, he's successfully turned around over 100 companies. Now he's bringing those skills to CNBC and doing something no one has ever done on TV before ... he's putting millions of dollars of his own money on the line. And once inside these companies, he'll do almost anything to save the business.
"This unique partnership is a great opportunity to draw attention to small business which is the heart and soul of the American economy, " Lemonis explained. "We are proud to be a race sponsor and what better way to celebrate the launch of a new season of 'The Profit' than with passionate NASCAR fans."
'The PROFIT on CNBC 500, Presented by Small Business Fueling America' will be the capstone event on the fourth and final day if PIR's March race weekend. With the season opening just one week earlier in Daytona, the second race of the season is guaranteed to be action packed. The green flag will drop on The Profit on CNBC 500 at 3 p.m. EST/ 1 p.m. MST on Sunday, March 2.
Tickets are available at phoenixraceway.com'(PIR)(2-8-2014)

Phoenix names Nationwide race sponsor: Cotton Incorporated and Phoenix International Raceway announced a partnership for an at-track denim recycling initiative and entitlement to the Blue Jeans Go Green 200 presented by Cotton, The Fabric of Our Lives Nationwide Series race on Saturday, March 1. The Blue Jeans Go Green 200 will be supported by an at-track recycling program in which race weekend attendees will be able to drop off any type of denim at one of four recycling collection bin locations that will be set up around the track. Phoenix International Raceway is proud to provide a 20 percent discount on tickets to the November 2014 PIR NASCAR Nationwide Series race to fans who recycle denim with Blue Jeans Go Green during the Spring race weekend. The denim will then be converted into UltraTouch Denim Insulation by Bonded Logic, located in Chandler, Ariz. To date, Blue Jeans Go Green has diverted more than 600 tons of waste out of landfills and generated approximately 2 million square feet of UltraTouch" Denim Insulation to assist with building efforts in communities in need. Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona will be one of the primary beneficiaries of insulation manufactured from denim collected during the Blue Jeans Go Green 200 race weekend.(PIR)(1-23-2014)

Quicken Loans to Sponsor Phoenix Cup Race: Quicken Loans, the nation's largest online mortgage lender, partnered with Phoenix International Raceway (PIR) to announce it will sponsor the Veterans Day weekend NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on November 9, 2014. An official name and race logo will be announced at a later date. "All eyes will be on Phoenix International Raceway next year as the end of the season rolls around and drivers are scrapping - literally and figuratively - for every position on the track," said Quicken Loans President and Chief Marketing Officer Jay Farner. "When we looked at the races on the NASCAR schedule, few others offered the same excitement and energy as the fall Phoenix race."
The race will conclude PIR's 50th Anniversary season and a year-long celebration of the track's rich history and contributions to motor sports in the West. Founded in 1964, PIR hosted its first NASCAR-sanctioned event in 1977 with a Winston West Series race. NASCAR's premier circuit, now known as the Sprint Cup Series, made its debut in Phoenix on November 6, 1988, and for the past 25 years, the fall race in Phoenix has been on or near Veterans Day weekend.
"We are proud to partner with Quicken Loans to present the final NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race of our 50th Anniversary season," said Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber. "They are a leader on the track and in the Phoenix business community, and their continuing support of veterans makes this partnership a perfect fit for our Veterans Day Weekend event."
Quicken Loans, who has an office of more than 550 team members in nearby Scottsdale, Arizona, has a strong tradition of honoring active military and veterans. Most notably, the company sponsored the Quicken Loans Carrier Classic on Veterans Day 2011, a first-of-its-kind basketball game that was played on a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier and attended by President Obama and this year will run a special veteran -themed paint scheme in this Sunday's Sprint Cup Series race at PIR.
"We continuously look for opportunities to honor our active military and veterans and thank them for their service to our country," said Farner. "What better way to do this than sponsor the Veterans Day race and have our veterans be a focal point of our efforts."
The partnership with PIR comes on the heels of Quicken Loans' announcement that it will join Richard Childress Racing (RCR) in 2014 and serve as primary sponsor of driver Ryan Newman's No. 31 Chevrolet SS for 12 races and associate sponsor for all remaining races, marking the company's third year in the sport. Quicken Loans will also continue as sponsor of Michigan International Speedway's Quicken Loans 400 Sprint Cup Race on June 15, 2014.(PIR)(11-10-2013)

NASCAR Bring "Troops to the Track" Program to Phoenix: The Armed Forces Foundation and NASCAR continue the 2013 Troops to the Track TM program on Sunday, November 10th, by bringing service members of a Marine Detachment group from Luke Air Force Base to the AdvoCare 500 on the Marine Corps' 238th birthday. This group provides general and engineering support to the Marine Expeditionary Force that includes survivability, counter-mobility and mobility enhancements. 2013 season of Troops to the Track, a program in which service members are treated to a daylong interactive at-track experience, which includes: a special invitation and recognition at the drivers' pre-race meeting, a private tour of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage, pit road access during driver introductions / National Anthem and special seating in the grandstands.(AFF)(11-10-2013)

Grandstands sold out at Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan Sperber announced that the track's grandstands are sold out for the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Nov. 10. "We're thrilled that NASCAR fans have once again chosen to attend the AdvoCare 500 and we are all looking forward to another wonderful and exciting race weekend," Sperber said. "We recognize that fans have a number of choices as they decide where to go and we're honored that they have chosen to support Phoenix International Raceway." Race fans wishing to attend NASCAR's final West Coast race of the season - the semi-final race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup - may still purchase general admission tickets to PIR's hillside area by calling 866-408-RACE or visiting PhoenixRaceway.com.(PIR)(11-2-2013)

Stephen Cochran to entertain fans at Phoenix: Marine Corps veteran and rising country music artist Stephen Cochran will entertain race fans throughout the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekend at Phoenix International Raceway. Cochran will play a pre-race concert on the track, the first such performance in PIR's history, beginning at 11:30am/mt prior to the AdvoCare 500 on Sunday, Nov. 10 and will perform the Star Spangled Banner immediately before the race starts at 1:00pm. He will also perform on the Budweiser ROLL-BAR Stage Saturday, Nov. 9 from Noon-12:45om prior to the ServiceMaster 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. Cochran's performances throughout race weekend are courtesy of Sugar Skull Rum. Because the race weekend proceeds Veterans Day on Monday, Nov. 11, much of the race-weekend entertainment will pay tribute to the everyday heroes who serve, protect and defend the country, including veterans, fire fighters and other service personnel.(PIR)(10-31-2013)

Fifth Harmony to perform National Anthem prior to Nationwide race at Phoenix: Radio Disney's "N.B.T." (Next Big Thing) and Epic Records' Fifth Harmony will perform "The Star-Spangled Banner" live at Phoenix International Raceway prior to the ServiceMaster 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race. The group's performance was arranged through a partnership between PIR, Radio Disney Phoenix and the NASCAR Entertainment Group. The teen pop female vocal group was put together by Simon Cowell and is comprised of individual "The X Factor" contestants Dinah Jane Hansen, Lauren Jauregui, Ally Brooke, Normani Kordei and Camila Cabello. Fifth Harmony recently released their debut EP "Better Together," which skyrocketed to No. 2 on the iTunes' album chart and features their first single, "Miss Movin' On."(PIR)(10-30-2013)

Safeway to operate on-site grocery store at Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced that Safeway will operate an on-site grocery store in the camping area at the race track beginning this fall with PIR's AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend Nov. 8-10. The nation's fourth-largest grocery chain, Safeway will be the official grocery partner of Phoenix International Raceway offering snacks and campground essentials. The store will look and feel just like one of Safeway's 115 stores throughout Arizona. The 17,200-square foot store will open its doors on Monday, Nov. 4 at Noon and will be open every day throughout race weekend. The store will also be open on Monday, Nov. 11 for campers to pick up any last-minute items before they return home. Race fans will be able to find all of their camping and cooking needs in the store, from charcoal and firewood to food and groceries, as well as ice, beer, snacks and other campground favorites. The store will also serve as the unofficial social hub of the campground as race fans start each day with coffee, donuts, breakfast burritos and the morning paper. In addition to the store, Safeway will also host a "Safeway Race Day Experience" display in the fan midway area adjacent to the grandstands. The display will feature an old school video arcade, sports den and fan photo area.(PIR)(10-28-2013)

2014 Phoenix tickets for sale: Phoenix International Raceway announced that tickets for the 10th Annual SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend Feb. 28-March 2, 2014 are now available for purchase. Fans have access to a variety of ways to purchase tickets for the exciting action-packed NASCAR weekend at PIR. Starting at just $25, tickets are available by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com and calling 866-408-RACE. The spring 2014 event weekend will kick off Phoenix International Raceway's 50th Anniversary season and will feature NASCAR's top two series. Fans can take advantage of PIR's 'Value Pricing' period and receive extra savings by purchasing their tickets for the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 early. 'Value Pricing' kicks off today and runs through December 31.(PIR)(10-4-2013)

Phoenix International Raceway to celebrate 50th Anniversary in 2014: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced plans today for the track's 50th Anniversary celebration in 2014. Sperber was joined by Arizona Governor Jan Brewer, Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox, Avondale Mayor Marie Lopez Rogers, West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame Chairman and former NASCAR Vice President Ken Clapp and 1983 Indianapolis 500 winner Tom Sneva for the announcement. The year-long 50th Anniversary campaign will be a celebration of PIR's relationships with its fans, community partners and the racing industry. Many of the greatest drivers to ever turn a lap on PIR's one-mile oval, along with the brightest personalities in the track's history, will be invited to return for race weekends and other events throughout the coming year. The 50th Anniversary celebration will feature a one-of-a-kind interactive and three-dimensional race weekend exhibit entitled Memory Lane, which will showcase the past 50 years of racing at PIR, including photos, artifacts and race-used memorabilia from drivers. The exhibit will also feature a number of classic cars with ties to the track and which, in some cases, actually raced at PIR.
Race fans will also see the 50th Anniversary theme incorporated in a number of ways over the next 13 months, including philanthropic and community outreach initiatives as well as special events throughout the year featuring noteworthy drivers and personalities. Plans also include commemorative publications and broadcast content; a year-long fan engagement program focused on the most influential people in the history of Phoenix International Raceway, as decided by a blue-ribbon panel of industry insiders, media and local officials; and world-class race weekend events and entertainment. More details related to the 50th Anniversary celebration will be announced on Friday, Nov. 8 during the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekend at PIR.(10-2-2013)

PIR to make major announcement on Oct 1st: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber will make a major announcement regarding the track's history and its future at a media event Tuesday, Oct.1 at The Ritz-Carlton. The event will begin with a reception followed by the announcement at 1:00pm/pt. Sperber will be joined by a number of dignitaries from local and state government as well as the motor sports industry. Arizona Governor Jan Brewer and 1983 Indianapolis 500 winner Tom Sneva are among the special guests expected to participate.(PIR)(9-25-2013)

Servicemaster to sponsor Phoenix Nationwide race:Phoenix International Raceway announced that ServiceMaster Clean and ServiceMaster Restore will be the title sponsor of the track's November NASCAR Nationwide Series race. The ServiceMaster 200 marks the first race entitlement for ServiceMaster in NASCAR. The ServiceMaster 200 will be the featured event for the third day of PIR's November race weekend. With the Nationwide Series title on the line, the green flag will drop on the ServiceMaster 200 at 2:00pm/mt on Saturday, November 9. Not only are ServiceMaster Clean and ServiceMaster Restore market leaders in cleaning and disaster restoration with more than 60 years of experience but also are business units of the ServiceMaster family of brands. ServiceMaster is one of the world's largest residential networks, featuring other household names such as Terminix, TruGreen, American Home Shield, Merry Maids, Furniture Medic and AmeriSpec.(PIR)(8-6-2013)

Phoenix race tickets on sale: Phoenix International Raceway announced that tickets will go on-sale June 1 for the fall AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, the Semi-Final Race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup. Tickets start at just $25 and can be purchased by visiting Phoenix Raceway.com or calling 866-408-RACE (7223). The popular fall weekend at PIR historically sells out and features a full weekend of NASCAR action, including racing from NASCAR's top-three series. The AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race takes place on Sunday, November 10. The event weekend also features the NASCAR Nationwide Series 200 on Saturday, November 9 and the Lucas Oil 150 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Friday, November 8.(PIR)(6-1-2013)

Brian Baumgartner named grand marshal of Subway Fit Fresh 500: Emmy winning star of NBC's critically acclaimed sitcom "The Office" Brian Baumgartner- a national spokesman for Subway Restaurants - has been named Grand Marshal for the upcoming SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500" at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, March 3. Baumgartner will join PIR in welcoming fans, NASCAR, drivers, and teams to the second race of the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season by delivering the most famous words in racing. "This is definitely something that you don't get to do everyday" said Baumgartner. "I'm extremely honored to be the Grand Marshal for this race and want to thank my friends at Subway and the folks at Phoenix International Raceway for giving me the opportunity to deliver those magic words on Sunday." Baumgartner currently stars as Kevin Malone in the ninth and final season of NBC's "The Office", airing Thursday evenings through May 16. Baumgartner's television appearances also include roles on Wilfred and Arrested Development and he appeared in the romantic comedy feature film License to Wed opposite Robin Williams, Mandy Moore, and The Office co-star John Krasinski. Tickets for the March 3 SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, as well as all other events throughout the March race weekend at Phoenix International Raceway are available at www.phoenixraceway.com or by calling 1-866-408-RACE (7223).(PIR)(2-28-2013)

Military cuts could limit flyovers: The military flyover for Sunday's Daytona 500 may be a rarity at NASCAR events -- and sporting events in general -- moving forward. Military spending cuts of 30 percent have forced the Air Force to trim flying hours by 18%. That will come from air shows, including the Thunderbirds aerobatic flying team that will perform prior to Daytona 500. Daytona International Speedway did not have its traditional flyover for the Rolex 24, Thursday's 150-mile qualifying races, and one is not planned for Saturday's Nationwide Series race. There is a plan in place if automatic budget cuts known as "sequestration" are triggered on March 1 to suspend all Air Force flyovers immediately except for the Thunderbirds, which will be suspended on April 1. "If sequestration kicks in, we'll be looking not to support any future NASCAR races," Wendy Varhegyi, the chief of the engagement division for Air Force public affairs, told ESPN.com. Varhegyi said the suspension of flyovers would include all sports "at least through the end of the fiscal year [Sept. 30]." Luke Air Force was not allowed to provide a flyover for the March 3 Sprint Cup race at Phoenix. Instead, a private company has provided the track a B-17 that is not a part of Air Force inventory. Las Vegas Motor Speedway has an agreement with the Thunderbirds based nearby at Nellis Air Force Base for its March 10 Cup event. But Speedway Motorsports, which hosts 11 other Cup events in addition to the Vegas race, has a "tentative hold" on flyovers. NASCAR officials said they are working with the military and tracks to find a compromise that will allow flyovers to remain at events.(ESPN)(2-23-2013)

Dollar General to sponsor Nationwide race: Dollar General, together with AmeriGas, will be the title sponsor of the Phoenix Raceway March 2, 2013 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. The Dollar General 200 Fueled by AmeriGas is the second race of the 2013 NASCAR Nationwide Series season. The Dollar General 200 Fueled by AmeriGas will be the feature event for the third day in PIR's March race weekend. The green flag will drop on the Dollar General 200 Fueled by AmeriGas at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 2. In addition to the title sponsorship deal with Phoenix International Raceway, Dollar General is the full-season Nationwide Series sponsor for the #20 Toyota driven by Brian Vickers and half-season sponsor for Matt Kenseth's #20 Dollar General Toyota Camry for 17 races in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.(PIR)(2-7-2013)

Phoenix offering pit pass experience: Fans looking for a behind-the-scenes peek to the NASCAR action at the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 on March 3 at Phoenix International Raceway, will now have an opportunity to enjoy an enhanced experience with their 'Pre-Race Pit Pass'. Offered at $60 per person, the Pre-Race Pit Pass entitles pass holders to a variety of added, backstage action on the NASCAR Sprint Cup race day, including: Garage Walk Access -Catch a glimpse of your favorite driver or car as they roll out of the garage and onto pit road before the start of the race (participants randomly selected); Driver Introductions - Access to pit road and the track to watch driver introductions; Trophy Photo Opportunities - Pose in Gatorade Victory Lane with the iconic SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 Trophy prior to the start of the race. Pre-Race Pit Passes are available now for purchase on PhoenixRaceway.com/Tickets or by calling 1-866-408-RACE (7223). Passes must be accompanied by a Grandstand Ticket to the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500.(PIR)(2-5-2013)

ISC reports dip in profits: International Speedway Corp. saw a year-over-year decline in both its 2012 fourth-quarter and full-year earnings and revenues, but the narrowing of the revenue decline for its core business operations to less than 1 percent has company officials encouraged. "We experienced leading signs of revenue stabilization this year," stated Lesa France Kennedy, ISC's chief executive officer, in both a news release and Thursday morning conference call with stock analysts. ISC, which operates Daytona International Speedway and a dozen other tracks around that country that host NASCAR races and other motorsports events, generated a net profit of roughly $54.6 million for its fiscal year, which ended Nov. 30, down from $69.4 million in fiscal 2011, and a fourth-quarter net profit of about $24.7 million, down from $26.5 million the same period the previous year. Its revenues totaled $612.3 million in 2012, down from $629.7 million in 2011, and in the fourth quarter it generated $189.4 million in sales, down from $191.9 million the same period the previous year. Kennedy said ISC had year-over-year increases in both revenues from broadcast fees, corporate sponsorships and food, beverage and merchandise sales at races, but "we continue to experience modest headwinds with admissions, not to the degree experienced in 2011, but enough to know we still have further inroads to make with our consumer."(full article at the Daytona Beach News-Journal)(1-25-2013)

Phoenix International Raceway 2nd in line for redevelopment: Phoenix International Raceway, which opened in 1964, is second on International Speedway Corp.'s priority list for a redevelopment project that could include new grandstands, garages plus other fan and competitor improvements. Lesa France Kennedy, chairwoman of ISC, which owns PIR and 11 other tracks, told azcentral sports Friday that the almost 50-year-old Avondale oval is behind only flagship Daytona International Speedway for a capital improvement budget approval. "Phoenix (which has sold out grandstands seats for three of its past four Sprint Cup races) has positioned itself in line for a lot of new amenities," Kennedy said. "I don't have an exact timeline for it. This is really high-up on our list ... you will see changes." Kennedy said ISC's Board of Directors, which will meet in April, recognizes that many other Valley sports entertainment venues are new or being upgraded. "We are aware we have to notch it (PIR) up," she said. "I would say Phoenix would be next in line (to Daytona)," she said. Daytona's own potential facility redevelopment plan recently was approved by the Daytona Beach city commission.(Arizona Republic and see an interview by Lesa Kennedy at the Arizona Republic)(11-11-2012)

Veterans Day Salute planned for Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway and NASCAR fans in attendance at the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will celebrate Veterans Day by paying tribute to the generations of men and women who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces during the pre-race show beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 11. All drivers from the four series' racing at PIR throughout the weekend have teamed up in support of Veterans Day weekend and will feature a commemorative decal honoring those who have served. The AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series pre-race show will feature a Veterans Ceremony honoring past members of each branch of the military.
The spectacular pre-race show will also include:
· Newly unveiled patriotic paint scheme on the Official Grand Marshal Car
· Special tribute video with messages from NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers
· SkyHawks Jumping Team
· Current military members holding flags on the hillside
· America the Beautiful
· National Anthem
· Fly over by Luke Air Force Base
· Luke Air Force Base Honor Guard
(PIR)(11-9-2012)

Arizona Governor Brewer named Honorary Starter for AdvoCare 500: Arizona Governor Jan Brewer has been selected as the Honorary Starter for the AdvoCare 500, Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced. As the Honorary Starter, Governor Brewer will wave the green flag to start the AdvoCare 500, as well as greet the drivers during pre-race ceremonies on Sunday, Nov. 11, 2012. "We are delighted to welcome Governor Brewer to serve as the Honorary Starter of the AdvoCare 500," Sperber said. "Governor Brewer has long recognized the positive economic impact to the State that NASCAR events at PIR have had. Her participation underscores that the race is more than a championship sporting event, it's also an economic engine for Arizona." Named Arizona's 22nd Governor on January 20, 2009, Brewer was elected Arizona's Secretary of State in 2002. Brewer's career in politics began in 1982 when she was elected to the Arizona House of Representatives where she served until 1987. Following that, she ran for and was elected to the Arizona State Senate, where she served until 1996, including a four-year period as Majority Whip. In 1996 she was elected to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors where she served two terms with the county before being elected Arizona Secretary of State. "Phoenix International Raceway and NASCAR are premier attractions for the City of Phoenix and State of Arizona," said Governor Brewer. "Like tens of thousands of Arizona racing fans, I'm excited for the AdvoCare 500 and thrilled to have the opportunity to participate as the Honorary Starter. I would like to thank PIR and NASCAR for their continued collaboration on this successful event."(PIR)(11-7-2012)

PIR grooms track surface for Advocare 500: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced on Monday the completion of a pre-event track grooming program in advance of the November 11 AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race, the semi-final race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup. "Last year we made a commitment to NASCAR and the drivers to groom the race surface for three races using the tire rotator machine," said Sperber. "This weekend we completed the last installment of the process and look forward to presenting a championship surface for the AdvoCare 500." PIR hired Colorado-based Bandimere Speedway to have a tire rotator machine burnish additional rubber into PIR's surface, enhancing the racing groove. The process is a continuation of the track's reconditioning effort that also took place prior to the Subway Fresh Fit 500 event weekend at PIR last March. "We have received great feedback from the drivers who have said our process has helped improve the quality of racing at PIR," said Larry Crispe, executive vice president of operations for Bandimere Speedway. "We are proud to again be a part of the preparations for what will be another great race in Phoenix." Last fall, with pre-race input from NASCAR and many of the Series' top drivers, PIR groomed the race surface using a different tire dragging device. That effort was augmented by six professional drivers running more than 3,000 laps on the new surface prior to the November race weekend. The PIR grooming program was widely lauded by the drivers during the 2011 November NASCAR weekend.(PIR)(11-6-2012)

Vektor Vodka named official vodka of Phoenix Raceway: Phoenix International Raceway announced that the track will welcome Arizona-based Vektor Vodka to its family of Official Partners. Vektor Vodka will kick off their partnership as PIR's Official Vodka during the AdvoCare 500 weekend with the opening of the Bar Vektor Vodka Lounge in the fan midway and the presenting sponsorship of PIR: After Dark. Vektor Vodka will be introducing a signature drink available to fans throughout the midway called The Redline, as well as having their logo proudly displayed on the hood of Bobby Labonte's #47 JTG-Daugherty Toyota Camry. Helping to keep PIR's party alive after the checkered flag, PIR: After Dark will feature guest bartender Brad Daugherty and guest appearances by Bobby Labonte. Vektor Vodka is distilled and bottled in Samara, Russia's oldest and most distinguished distillery.(PIR)(11-6-2012)

Phoenix grooms track for Advocare 500: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced the completion of a pre-event track grooming program in advance of the AdvoCare. "Last year we made a commitment to NASCAR and the drivers to groom the race surface for three races using the tire rotator machine," said Sperber. "This weekend we completed the last installment of the process and look forward to presenting a championship surface for the AdvoCare 500." PIR hired Colorado-based Bandimere Speedway to have a tire rotator machine burnish additional rubber into PIR's surface, enhancing the racing groove. The process is a continuation of the track's reconditioning effort that also took place prior to the Subway Fresh Fit 500 event weekend at PIR last March.(PIR)(11-5-2012)

Grandstands sold out at Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway's grandstands are sold out for the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race on November 11. "We're delighted that NASCAR fans have chosen to attend the AdvoCare 500 and have snapped up the available seats for the event," track president Bryan Sperber said. "We recognize that fans have a lot of choices as they decide where to go, we're honored that they have chosen to support Phoenix International Raceway." Race fans wishing to attend NASCAR's final West Coast race of the season - the semi-final race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup - may still purchase general admission tickets to PIR's hillside area by calling 866-408-RACE or visiting PhoenixRaceway.com.(PIR)(11-2-2012)

Lost Trailers in concert at Phoenix: Country music duo The Lost Trailers- known for their current hit "American Beauty"- will perform at 11 a.m. on Sunday, November 11 at the Budweiser ROLL-BAR main stage prior to the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway. The Lost Trailers rose to stardom in 2008 with their Top-Ten hit "Holler Back". Re-launched in 2011 with founding-member Stoke Nielson and collaborator Jason Wyatt, The Lost Trailers recently released the singles "Underdog" and the current hit "American Beauty". Live entertainment on the Budweiser ROLL-BAR main stage is available to all grandstand ticket holders. Tickets to Budweiser ROLL-BAR Club are available for advance purchase at $99 for Nov. 10 and $149 for Nov. 11.(PIR)(11-1-2012)

Chelsea Bain singing National Anthem at Phoenix Nationwide race: Country singer and Arizona-native Chelsea Bain will sing "The Star Spangled Banner" prior to the Great Clips 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race at Phoenix International Raceway on Saturday, November 10. After spending her teenage years competing on horseback and winning more than ten national and world championships, Bain felt it was time to apply her skills and determination toward rocking music arenas. Embarking on an artist development mission, Bain will be releasing her first full-length album, All-American Country Girl, on Rock Ridge Music distributed through Warner Music. "Rockin' That Trailer" is the first single from the forthcoming album and is due for release in early 2013.(PIR)(10-31-2012)

JoJo singing Anthem at Phoenix: Pop singer/songwriter and actress JoJo will sing "The Star Spangled Banner" prior to the AdvoCare 500 Semi-Final NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday, November 11. The multi-platinum singer burst onto the music scene in 2004 with her debut single "Leave (Get Out)", making her the youngest artist ever to reach number one on Top- 40 radio with her single, as well as the youngest solo artist to receive at MTV Video Music Award Nomination. Most recently JoJo has released "Disaster" and "Demonstrate" on iTunes in support of her forthcoming third studio album scheduled for a 2013 release.(PIR)(10-29-2012)

UFC Champ Cruz honorary pace car driver at Phoenix: Ultimate Fighting Championship bantamweight champion, and former star of The Ultimate Fighter Live on FX, Dominick Cruz has been named Honorary Pace Car Driver for the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, November 11. Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Cruz, 27, has ascended to the top of his profession. Known for his outstanding speed and footwork, Cruz has compiled a 19-1-0 professional record that includes wins over the likes of Demetrious Johnson, Urijah Faber, Scott Jorgensen, Joseph Benavidez and Brian Bowles. Cruz, partnering with Niner Sports Marketing, will participate in pre-race ceremonies and will make appearances on site at PIR on Sunday, November 11.(PIR)(10-26-2012)

Phoenix announces driver appearances and entertainment for race weekend: Fans attending the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekend at Phoenix International Raceway will be treated to hearing from some of NASCAR's top drivers prior to the action on the track Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 10-11. PIR race fans will have an opportunity to visit with 2012 Chase contender Kevin Harvick, racing legend and five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series runner-up Mark Martin, Arizona native Michael McDowell and 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series runner-up Elliott Sadler- just to name a few. PIR will also offer fans a host of live entertainment options throughout the weekend. Kicking off the weekend in SPEED Cantina, Harry Luge Jr. makes his return to PIR for the November event weekend. Headlining Friday night's party at PIR: After Dark, the Furious George Band and a fireworks show will continue the night after the on track action concludes. Saturday wraps up with performances by Harry Luge Jr. and Chad Freeman and Redline at the SPEED Cantina.(PIR)(10-23-2012)

NASCAR Mexico Toyota Series to race in Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber, NASCAR and OCESA announced that the NASCAR Mexico Toyota Series will make its United States debut at PIR during the March, 2013 race weekend. The landmark international event will run on Friday, March 1, as part of the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend at PIR. The race will be televised in the United States, Mexico and Latin America. The 75-lap event will feature a format that includes a scheduled break after the first 50-laps followed by a 25-lap sprint to the finish. A full field of drivers from the NASCAR Mexico Toyota Series is expected to participate in this history making race, including current points leader Daniel Suarez, driver of the No. 3 Equipo TELCEL. The NASCAR Mexico Toyota Series will kick off its 10th season overall and seventh under the NASCAR banner at Phoenix International Raceway on March 1, 2013, followed by 14 races at eight different tracks throughout Mexico.(PIR)(10-3-2012)

AdvoCare sponsoring Phoenix race: Phoenix International Raceway announced that AdvoCare International (AdvoCare) has been named title sponsor for the track's November 11 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event: The AdvoCare 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. The AdvoCare 500, the Semi-Final race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, will be the feature event for PIR's November race weekend. With the Sprint Cup Series Championship on the line, the green flag will drop on the AdvoCare 500 at 1 p.m. MST. AdvoCare is a health and wellness company that offers world-class nutrition, weight loss, energy and sports performance products. No stranger to NASCAR fans, AdvoCare is also the primary sponsor of rising star Austin Dillon and the #3 AdvoCare Chevy in the NASCAR Nationwide Series for legendary owner Richard Childress Motorsports.(PIR)(9-25-2012)

Phoenix Qualifying moved to Friday: Phoenix International Raceway announced that NASCAR has moved Gatorade Pole Qualifying for the semi-final race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup to Friday, Nov. 9 at 4:10 p.m. The weekend's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will remain as scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 11. "We are pleased that NASCAR has moved Qualifying to Friday," said Sperber. "It will add excitement to an already fantastic day that features the Lucas Oil 150 Camping World Truck Series event." Gates open to the public Friday at 9 a.m. A full day of activity on the track will be highlighted by Gatorade Pole Qualifying and the running of the Lucas Oil 150 Camping World Truck Series race at 6 p.m.(PIR)(7-18-2012)

Phoenix looking for fall title race sponsor, 2013 dates: IndyCar isn't listed on Phoenix International Raceway's 2013 season-ticket renewal brochure, but the series still might return to the Avondale oval for the first time since 2005. Substantive negotiations between PIR President Bryan Sperber and IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard are expected within the next six weeks. A more immediate priority is to sign a new title sponsor for the upcoming Sprint Cup race. Kobalt Tools didn't renew due to budget cutbacks. Sperber said he's talking with potential replacements. PIR's 2013 brochure lists March 1-3 for the Subway Fresh Fit 500 and Nov. 7-10 for the Sprint Cup Series' championship semifinal. Incentives are offered for season-ticket renewals by July 20.(USA Today)(6-23-2012)

Phoenix tickets on sale Friday: Phoenix International Raceway has waived the green flag for fans to purchase tickets to one of the most exciting race weekends of the NASCAR season, featuring the semi-final race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Tickets to the Nov. 8-11 NASCAR event weekend at PIR go on sale June 1 and can be purchased by visiting PhoenixRaceway.com/Tickets or by calling 1-866-408-RACE (7223). Last year's semi-final race at PIR sold out quickly. The capacity crowd witnessed a thrilling race won by Kasey Kahne on PIR's newly paved track, while Chase points leaders Carl Edwards and Tony Stewart positioned themselves for an historic conclusion to the 2011 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. A number of great individual pricing options are available throughout the event weekend. Tickets to the Sunday, Nov. 11 Chase for the Sprint Cup Series Race begin at $25. Prices start as low as $15 for the opportunity to watch two Saturday (Nov. 10) races, the Great Clips 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race and the Casino Arizona 50 NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Race.(PIR)(5-30-2012)

Homestead-Miami, Daytona, Phoenix featured in "Smoke Your Tires" Game: Picturesque Homestead-Miami Speedway is one of the first tracks featured in a new downloadable application, Smoke Your Tires. Coinciding with the start of the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series racing season, International Speedway Corporation has lent the marks to its 12 tracks to a new iTunes app, Smoke Your Tire. Homestead-Miami Speedway is among the first featured in the app, along with other iconic ISC facilities Daytona International Speedway and Phoenix International Raceway. This application for the iPhone is available now in the iTunes store with an Android version forthcoming. The app allows players to customize a stock car to feel as if they are smoking tires on the actual 1.5-mile Homestead-Miami Speedway track in never-before-seen-on-apps 360 degree spins, the difficulty of which increases by graduating levels. The first two levels, with backdrops at Homestead-Miami Speedway and Daytona International Speedway, respectively, are free with multi-level tiers added with each new event of the stock car racing season hosted at an ISC track. Each level will be a unique experience with new challenges and varying degrees of difficulty.(HMS)(3-8-2012)

PIR Traffic: Phoenix International Raceway is encouraging fans to prepare for race day traffic by arriving early and enjoying the full NASCAR experience during the Subway Fresh Fit 500 event weekend, March 2-4. PIR will open its 2012 NASCAR season with three races, including Sunday's Sprint Cup Series race at 1 pm. See fan guidelines, traffic plans and notes, Park 'N Ride info, parking, directions and links to maps at phoenixracing.com.(3-2-2012)

Jared, Subway & PIR to provide lunch & race tickets for National Guard: on Friday, Subway famous fan Jared Fogle will provide lunch and race tickets to several hundred members of the Arizona National Guard in honor of the 2012 Subway Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. Jared and Subway team with PIR to pay homage to true American heroes and invite them to enjoy the exciting action during one of the Phoenix area's top annual sporting event weekends.(PIR)(3-2-2012)

Jet dryer operators to wear firesuits, helmets: Jet dryer operators will wear firesuits and helmets this weekend at Phoenix International Raceway as part of a safety move following Juan Pablo Montoya's fiery crash in the Daytona 500. Texas Motor Speedway President Eddie Gossage said his track will take action as well. Jet dryer operators, whose job entails blowing debris from the track following wrecks as well as drying the racing surface, do not wear firesuits because they typically are not around fires. "My guys will [wear them] because, if nothing else, I like them and they're good guys," Gossage said. "I want firesuits and helmets for those guys. I want at least four-point [seat-belt] harnesses. I want to look at roll bars. I want to look at the right kind of fire extinguishers in the truck.(Scene Daily)(3-2-2012)

Candlebox to perform at PIR: Legendary rock band Candlebox will energize the crowd at Phoenix International Raceway with a live concert this Sunday, March 4, to celebrate the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 event weekend. The concert begins at 11 a.m. at Budweiser ROLL-BAR, PIR's showcase venue for live music and entertainment. Known for their blend of hard rock and a contemporary sound, Candlebox is scheduled to release their fifth album, Love Stories and other Musings, on April 3 and will begin a six-week U.S. tour two days later. Single-day tickets to Budweiser ROLL-BAR are available for $99 on Saturday, March 3 and for $149 on Sunday, March 4. A Budweiser ROLL-BAR Club Pass and a Pre-Race Pit Pass for Sunday, March 4 is available for $179 and a weekend Budweiser ROLL-BAR pass (Saturday, March 3 and Sunday, March 4) including a Pre-Race Pit-Pass is $249. Additional purchase of a grandstand ticket is still required for track admission.(PIR)(3-2-2012)

Brian McKnight to sign National Anthem at Phoenix: World-renowned recording artist Brian McKnight will sing the national anthem prior to the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500, Sunday, March 4. McKnight and his sons, Brian Jr. and Niko, will launch Phoenix's 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup season with the same soulful sounds that have been a McKnight trademark for two decades. McKnight and his sons are avid NASCAR fans. "In our house, we are either talking about sports or music, and there is nothing like the excitement of NASCAR," said McKnight. "My sons and I are thrilled to be performing at Phoenix International Raceway on Sunday. We hope everyone enjoys our rendition of the National Anthem."(Phoenix Raceway)(2-29-2011)

NFLer Ndamukong Suh named Grand Marshal of Subway Fresh Fit 500: All-Pro defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh will serve as Grand Marshal for the 2012 Subway Fresh Fit 500 on Sunday, March 4 at Phoenix International Raceway. Suh was immediately recognized as one of the most dominant defensive linemen in pro football after being selected second overall by Detroit in the 2010 Draft. In only two seasons, he has registered 102 tackles (75 solo), 14 sacks and one interception while starting all 30 games in which he has played. Suh, whose first name means "House of Spears," is a native of Portland, OR. In his role as Grand Marshal, Suh will participate in pre-race festivities and will kick off the race by saying the most famous words in NASCAR, "Gentlemen, start your engines!"
"I am honored to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Subway Fresh Fit 500," said Suh. "I've been fortunate to experience motor sports all over the world and am somewhat of an enthusiast. I am really excited to share this experience with my great friends from Subway, and I can't wait to give the command." Additional information about the Subway Fresh Fit 500 and all race weekend activities (March 2-4) can be found by visiting phoenixraceway.com.(PIR)(2-22-2012)

NASCAR turns down 'General Lee': Concerned over the negative image of the Confederate flag, NASCAR told PGA star Bubba Watson he cannot drive his "General Lee'' show car around Phoenix International Raceway before the March 4 Sprint Cup race. Watson, an honorary race official for the event, was originally told he could appear in the #01 car from the "Dukes of Hazzard'' television series, which he purchased for $110,000 at an auction. NASCAR officials vetoed that because there is a Confederate flag on the roof of the bright orange Dodge Charger made famous in the series, which aired from 1979-85, and the sport is trying to distance itself from the negative image that brings. "NASCAR, International Speedway Corp. and Phoenix International Raceway officials discussed this and decided it was not in the best interest of our sport,'' NASCAR said in a statement on Friday. "The image of the Confederate flag is not something that should play an official role in our sport as we continue to reach out to new fans and make NASCAR more inclusive." Watson, who recently drove the car to the Phoenix Open golf tournament, wrote Thursday on Twitter: "Sorry to say @nascar won't let me drive The General Lee at the @PhoenixRaceway !!! #dreamcrushed." The Confederate flag still is flown by fans at many racetracks, particularly in the South. But NASCAR has made it clear over the years that it doesn't want to be associated with that image.(ESPN)(2-17-2012)

Phoenix honorary pace car driver named: UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz will be among the headline attractions during the Subway Fresh Fit 500 on Sunday, March 4 at Phoenix International Raceway. It was announced by track President Bryan R. Sperber, that Cruz was named Honorary Pace Car Driver for the race. "Dominick is a true Arizona success story and we are proud of the style and class with which he represents our entire region," said Sperber. "We are excited to have him headline the weekend activities that kickoff the start of the 2012 NASCAR season at PIR." Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Cruz, 26, has ascended to the top of his profession, compiling a 19-1-0 professional record that includes wins over the likes of Demetrious Johnson, Urijah Faber, Scott Jorgensen, Joseph Benavidez and Brian Bowles. Cruz and Faber will face each other as opposing coaches in the upcoming season of "The Ultimate Fighter Live" premiering on FX before squaring off in the Octagon® for the third time following the program's season finale. Cruz will participate in pre-race ceremonies and will make appearances onsite at PIR on Sunday, March 4. Additional information on race weekend activities is available on Phoenix International Raceway's official website at www.phoenixraceway.com.(PIR)(2-11-2012)

Jepson promoted to Communications Manager of Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway announced the promotion of Jennifer Jepson to Communications Manager. In her new role, Jepson will manage daily operations in all areas for the company's communications department. Jepson joins recently hired Director of Communications, Dave Lockett, who joined Phoenix international Raceway earlier this year. Jepson originally joined the company in 2011 as Client Relations Coordinator in the sales & marketing department where she helped manage the activation of all corporate sponsorships. Raised in Phoenix, AZ., Jepson graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.(PIR)(2-1-2012)

Checkered Flag Run at Phoenix March 2-3: Race fans and motorcycle enthusiasts will celebrate diversity during the 2nd Annual Checkered Flag Run to Phoenix International Raceway's NASCAR Weekend on March 2-3. The exciting two-day event will include a ride to Phoenix International Raceway and an opportunity to enjoy the Bashas' Supermarkets 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race. The largest multicultural motorcycle gathering at NASCAR, The Checkered Flag Run will launch with a kickoff reception featuring live entertainment on Friday, March 2 from 6-10 p.m. at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler, AZ. Saturday, March 3 will begin with a ride to Phoenix International Raceway to enjoy the Bashas' Supermarkets 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race. Riders will start from three separate locations, including Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport and Radisson Hotel Phoenix Chandler, and will arrive at the Phoenix International Raceway by 9 a.m. Tickets to the 2012 Checkered Flag Run can be purchased for $25 until March 1 by calling 1-866-498-RACE (7223) or through www.checkeredflagrun.com.(PIR)(1-31-2012)

Phoenix names Director of Communications: Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber announced that Dave Lockett has been named Director of Communications. Lockett, who most recently directed public relations for the Pittsburgh Steelers, will oversee all communications for PIR effective immediately. Lockett spent 13 seasons with the Steelers after previously working in corporate communications at the National Football League and with several New York-area PR firms.(PIR)(1-15-2012)