Voting for the 2024 National Motorsports Press Association Most Popular Driver Award opened Monday, Oct. 28, 2024.
Voting will remain open until Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024. The winner will be announced Friday, Nov. 22, during the annual NASCAR Awards Ceremonies in Charlotte, N.C.
Fans may cast five votes for a single driver once a day, per email address at www.NASCAR.com/mostpopulardriver or on the NASCAR mobile app.
To be eligible for the award, a driver must have declared for NASCAR Cup Series points. A driver also must have been eligible for championship contention during the 2024 season.
The award was first presented to Curtis Turner in 1949 after NASCAR’S inaugural Strictly Stock (now Cup) season. It has been administered by the NMPA and presented annually by the organization since 1983. It remains the only major NASCAR award determined solely by fan vote.
NMPA Hall of Fame member and 1988 Cup Series champion Bill Elliott possesses the record for Most Popular Driver awards with 16: 1984-1988, 1991-2000, and 2002. Dale Earnhardt Jr., inducted into the NMPA Hall of Fame in 2020, won the award for 15 consecutive seasons, 2003-2017.
Chase Elliott has received the honor the past five years.
Formed in 1965, the NMPA consists of qualified media members who report on the sport of auto racing through affiliations with print, radio, television, and/or internet news-gathering organizations. In addition to the NMPA Most Popular Driver Award, the NMPA presents an array of significant honors in auto racing, some of which are the Richard Petty Driver of the Year Award, the Myers Brothers Award, the NMPA Pocono Spirit Award, and the Wood Brothers Award of Excellence.
Additional information about the NMPA can be found at www.nmpaonline.com.
The 31st ANNUAL FARM SHOW REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
The Farm Show is an indoor race held annually at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, PA. This is a 2-day event, hosted by MCQMRC and BQMRC. This two-day event will be held November 16-17, 2024 with all heats on Saturday and all Features on Sunday.
To Register, visit: ➡️ t.ly/HuOsC
**This event has a cap and once reached registration will close! There will be no late registrations or day-of registrations accepted!
Stay tuned for Sponsorship opportunities!
If you have any questions regarding registration please reach out to Rachel Gallagher at info@mcqmrc.com (Montomery County Quarter Midget Racing Club).
Four inspiring NASCAR fans who are making a difference in children’s lives through local children’s organizations were announced today by The NASCAR Foundation as finalists for the 14th annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award. The announcement, which was made live on Speedway with Dave Moody on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, highlighted the volunteers’ commitment to improving the lives of children across the country.
Finalists Tammy Raulerson, Judy Simmons, Carlos Washington and Julie Wooldridge were surprised on-air with an appearance by defending NASCAR Cup Series Champion Ryan Blaney, who congratulated them for their volunteer accomplishments along with showing appreciation for their impacts on children in local communities.
“This year’s award finalists exemplify the generosity of our NASCAR community. Their volunteer efforts have significantly impacted the lives of children in our local racing communities, a passion for helping others which was championed by Betty Jane France,” said Mike Helton, The NASCAR Foundation Chairman. “Tammy, Judy, Carlos and Julie are inspirations to us all. We hope NASCAR fans everywhere will take time learn more about these incredible finalists’ stories and vote for this year’s award winner.”
The NASCAR Foundation’s Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, named in honor of the foundation’s late founder and chairwoman Betty Jane France, recognizes NASCAR fans who volunteer for children’s causes in their local communities. Each finalist receives a minimum $25,000 donation for their organization with the overall winner receiving a $100,000 donation from The NASCAR Foundation to further their efforts.
The 14th annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award finalists include:
Tammy Raulerson of College Station, Texas, a volunteer who has spent more than ten years organizing and overseeing family camp weekends and providing families facing pediatric cancer with support, community, and joy through the Periwinkle Foundation.
Judy Simmons of Axton, Virginia, a volunteer who has been a member of the God’s Pit Crew disaster response team of more than 1,500 volunteers for six years. In her role, Judy leads volunteer teams to provide essential needs to families and children in their time of crisis.
Carlos Washington of Florence, South Carolina, a volunteer who has dedicated 20 years of service to Boys and Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area, which offers programs that promote the childhood development by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence.
Julie Wooldridge of Mooresville, North Carolina, who co-founded Hope of Mooresville six years ago to arrange temporary safe shelter and support services for local homeless women and children and to provide long-term solutions to homelessness while breaking the cycle for the next generation of families.
The overall winner will be determined by an online vote, which is open now. To view videos of the finalists, visit NASCARfoundaton.org/Award to watch clips about each finalist’s impact on children while voting once a day, every day through Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. ET for their favorite finalist.
The overall winner will be announced during the NASCAR Awards in Charlotte on Friday, Nov. 22.
The 52nd annual RPM@Reno Western Workshops and RPM@Daytona Workshops are ready for attendees and exhibitors to register and book their lodging at each event.
The RPM@Reno Western Workshops will take place for the second consecutive year at the popular Silver Legacy, which is part of “The Row” in downtown Reno, NV. The Western edition will kickoff on Tuesday, December 3rd with “the green flag” presented by MyRacePass in NOVI at the Eldorado with an opening reception and registration time. The Workshops will begin on Wednesday, December 4th and conclude on Thursday, December 5th, with attendees and exhibitors having plenty of time to reach their weekend destinations.
The hotel registration link for the Silver Legacy is as follows; https://book.passkey.com/event/50906779/owner/7272/home?utm_campaign=295560759
The credential for MyRacePass can be found here; https://www.myracepass.com/businesses/21560/tickets/1418790
Credentials may be purchased offline by visiting here; https://www.promotersnewsletter.com/reno-apply-offline/
The RPM@Daytona Workshops once again be held at The Shores Spa & Resort in Daytona Beach Shores, FL.
There will be a brief registration on Sunday, February 9, from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm, at The Shores, followed by a Super Bowl “Watch” party in the Richard Petty ballroom beginning at 6:00 pm. The gathering is intended to be an informal “socializing” opportunity for visitors to the Workshops. The 52nd RPM@Daytona Workshops will continue beginning on Monday, February 10th and run through Tuesday, February 11th when the 48th annual Auto-Racing Promoter of the Year (ARPY) will be announced.
The hotel registration link for the Shores Spa & Resort is as follows; https://be.synxis.com/?Hotel=17713&Chain=5433&arrive=2025-02-09&depart=2025-02-12&adult=1&child=0&group=2502RPMRAC
The credential for MyRacePass can be found here; https://www.myracepass.com/businesses/21560/tickets
Credentials may be purchased offline by visiting here; https://www.promotersnewsletter.com/daytona-apply-offline/
The Workshops will have a stellar lineup up of speakers and presenters set for promoters who attend the annual workshops to garner ideas and continue developing and growing their businesses while having the opportunity to connect with a variety of colleagues, industry professionals and exhibitors that touch every corner of the short track racing industry.
The 52nd Annual RPM@Reno Western and RPM@Daytona Workshops stand as a "can't miss" event for track promoters throughout North America.
IndyCar CEO Mark Miles (c) says he plans to stay in the role he's held since 2012.
IndyCar CEO Mark Miles says he’s still enjoying his role and plans to continue in it, making clear that he’s not planning to step down at a time when some have wondered if change could come to IndyCar’s leadership.
Miles has been in the role since late 2012, and his tenure stretches across two ownership groups, with Roger Penske serving as his current boss. He started under the tenure of Hulman & Co.
Miles is the president and CEO of Penske Entertainment, the parent company of IndyCar. While the series has achieved growth on several fronts during his tenure, some public miscues in recent years have led some industry stakeholders like teams, agents and executives from other racing properties to question whether there could be changes to IndyCar’s leadership in the future.
The issues that have arisen include IndyCar trying to prevent Honda from leaving the series after the carmaker issued an ultimatum of sorts late last year and suggested it could switch to NASCAR instead. The series also saw NASCAR land a race in Mexico at a time when IndyCar fans have been calling for a race there because of rising Arrow McLaren star Pato O’Ward. It also scrapped its official video game deal last year before a product was ever released, something that prevented a potential high-profile marketing boost for the series. IndyCar was then called out this year by Michael Andretti, who recently gave up his majority stake of Andretti Autosport, for not being aggressive enough on the business side of the sport.
The status of Miles’ contract is unclear. But asked whether he’s still motivated to continue in the role, Miles told SBJ: “I love it and am really excited about what the short-term future will bring — some of the things we’ve already talked about and more. Listen, as long as I can keep up with my boss [Penske] — he’s amazing — so I like this and am excited about our growth and our growth prospects and expect to be here to see a lot of that through.”
Grantville’s Doug Hammaker recently wrapped up his third career HJ Towing & Recovery 358 sprint car track title at Williams Grove Speedway in late September.
Hammaker’s third title came at the wheel of the Summit Technology Group No. 17.
It was the driver’s second track title in a row with his first occurring in 2019.
Three-time track titlist Derek Locke finished second in the points, just 20 markers back of Hammaker.
Preston Lattomus finished third in the standings.
Hammaker picked up two wins in the 10 division races contested during the 2024 season to go along with finishes of second, third, fifth, sixth and a trio of eighth-place finishes.
Wins came on May 3 and June 28.
The champion ended the season with an average finish of 6.6.
He now owns an even dozen wins on the Williams Grove all-time 358 sprint car win list.
Cole Young of East Berlin earned Rookie of the Year honors in the 358 sprints at Williams Grove.
Young copped the season closer for the division on September 20.
Keep up to date on all the latest speedway news and information by visiting the oval’s official website located at www.williamsgrove.com and by following the track on X, Facebook and Instagram.
RacingJunk.com is the Official Classifieds for Williams Grove Speedway.
BLOCKBUSTER BOOST: The series got a boost last week after signing a deal with the Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys to race around their venues in a new event, the Grand Prix of Arlington, which will start in 2026. Miles has also hinted that IndyCar is working on another “blockbuster”-type event that would be in the Western half of the U.S., and he said the series is quickly progressing toward striking a deal to race in Mexico City in 2026. The series is also planning a new car for 2027.
“The initial starting point on this is a strategy we’ve articulated for some time, which essentially is that in developing our calendar, we want to be in vibrant cities and to do that in innovative ways and to do it with great partners – high level partners. I think this is the first of some examples where that came together,” Miles said.
Miles said talks on the Texas race started a couple years ago, and that the three sides have put together a joint venture in which they are all equity owners and will set up a full-time staff based in the Lone Star State. He said the original spark of the sides getting together to negotiate on the deal was Greg Penske’s connections with Legends and the Cowboys. Greg Penske is the son of Roger Penske and has been increasingly involved in the series’ business. Roger Penske also has a longtime relationship with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
“The event we’ll pull off in Arlington will facilitate IndyCar being seen as major league,” said Miles. “I feel like our racing and our sport deserves that and these kinds of initiatives will help us be positioned that way and recognize that way.”
Forging a new path, Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI) and Rackley W.A.R. announced today a partnership for 2025 that will focus on continuing to build and elevate Rackley W.A.R.’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and Late Model programs. The partnership will bring together Rackley W.A.R. co-owners, Willie Allen and Curtis Sutton, with NASCAR Champion driver and owner, Kevin Harvick.
Through the partnership, both Kevin and Keelan Harvick will join the driver line up for Rackley W.A.R.’s Super Late Model and Pro Late Model programs. In addition, Harvick will serve as a consultant to Rackley W.A.R.’s Truck Series program where development driver Dawson Sutton will transition to full-time Truck Series competition in 2025.
“Although KHI had some success this year in the Late Model Stock world, the Pros and Supers are different animals,” Kevin Harvick said. “We still plan to have a presence in the CARS Tour next year, but Rackley W.A.R. has a solid and proven track record that will drastically improve the learning curve for Keelan and I in the Super and Pro Late Models. In return, I hope that my years of owning and operating a championship winning truck program will help shorten Dawson’s learning curve in his rookie truck season and positively impact their truck program. We look forward to working with Willie and the Sutton family in 2025.”
Led by co-owner and 2007 Truck Series Rookie of the Year and Nashville Fairgrounds 2015 Pro Late Model Track Champion Willie Allen, the Rackley W.A.R. driver development program has helped mold some of today’s biggest names in NASCAR and continues to provide a winning seat for the next generation of racers. Most recently, Dawson Sutton took over the driving duties of the No. 25 truck and earned his best finish in the series with a fifth-place finish at Kansas Speedway, while continuing to compete and win in Late Model competition. With a roster that has included 2024 Daytona 500 winner William Byron, Ross Chastain, Josh Berry, Timothy Peters and Connor Zilisch, the future of Rackley W.A.R.’s driver development and Late Model programs will only continue to grow as the organization adds both Kevin and Keelan Harvick to the list.
“Teaming up with Kevin Harvick is a game-changer for us at Rackley W.A.R.,” said Rackley W.A.R. co-owner Willie Allen. “His experience as a champion driver and owner brings an incredible amount of knowledge that will help elevate our truck program to the next level. Having Keelan and Kevin join our Late Model team next season is just as exciting. We’re not just building a partnership—we’re building a future. There’s no doubt this collaboration will drive success, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
Through the partnership, Harvick will bring decades of championship winning experience on and off the track to elevate Rackley W.A.R. to the next level of competition. Harvick’s knowledge of team ownership, his competitive nature, valuable racing knowledge and desire to win is unparalleled.
“It’s exciting to have this opportunity present itself,” said Curtis Sutton, co-owner of Rackley W.A.R. “In our fifth year as an organization, Rackley W.A.R. is taking strategic steps for a successful 2025 and beyond. Kevin is the first link of many more to come. He will help Willie and I guide the Late Model and NASCAR Truck Series team for long term success.
“As you strive to grow any business, you have to surround yourself with exceptional people and winners,” continued Sutton. “Kevin and his family have both traits. Kevin has been a winner in everything he has done. I know this is going to be a great partnership for Rackley W.A.R. and KHI’s employees, drivers, vendors, sponsor's and all of our fans.”
The 2025 NASCAR Truck Series season kicks off at Daytona International Speedway on Friday, February 14, with Dawson Sutton starting his rookie campaign and first season of full-time NASCAR competition.
Kevin and Keelan Harvick’s Late Model schedule will be announced at a later date.
TALK ABOUT UNIQUE NAMES. NHRA officials announced today that Muckleshoot Casino Resort has been named the title sponsor of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series’ annual race at Pacific Raceways in Seattle as part of an exciting new multi-year agreement.
The 36th annual Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals will take place on July 18-20, added another thrilling element to the longtime race at the fan-favorite facility. Tickets for the race go on sale on Nov. 11.
A longtime sponsor of major Seattle professional teams, this marks Muckleshoot Casino Resort’s first official partnership with the NHRA and Pacific Raceways, bringing added visibility to the only major motorsports series event in the Pacific Northwest.
“As the title sponsor of the Muckleshoot Casino Resort NHRA Northwest Nationals, we are incredibly proud to partner with one of the most exhilarating and widely celebrated motorsports organizations in the world,” Muckleshoot Casino Resort CEO Tim Perkins said.
“This strategic partnership not only elevates our presence within the racing community but also highlights our commitment to offering world-class entertainment. By aligning with the NHRA, we can reach new audiences, strengthen our ties within the community, and highlight our commitment to delivering top-tier experiences!”
At this season’s event, Steve Torrence (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car), Jeg Coughlin Jr. (Pro Stock) and Chase Van Sant (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all picked up event wins as Pacific Raceways also held night qualifying for the first time ever. Fans were treated to all the incredible sights and sounds of 11,000-horsepower, 330-mph Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars at night and under the lights, drawing rave reviews from the huge crowd in attendance.
The scenic facility has played host to NHRA national events for nearly four decades and next year’s race will be loaded with action, including another Friday night session, four overall qualifying rounds (two each on Friday and Saturday), the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge bonus race on Saturday and eliminations on Sunday.
Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) announced today that its racing division, Toyota Racing, will formally become Toyota Gazoo Racing North America prior to the start of the 2025 motorsports season with all of its motorsports efforts competing under the global Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) banner. TRD, U.S.A., a subsidiary of TMNA, will continue its technical and engineering support across Toyota motorsports efforts throughout the U.S.
“The transition to Toyota Gazoo Racing is an opportunity for our world class racing program to better align with Toyota’s global motorsports efforts while simultaneously continuing the championship-level results we’ve earned under the previous banner here in the U.S.,” said Paul Doleshal, Group Manager, motorsports, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA). “Globally, the efforts of GR Company and Toyota Gazoo Racing, is a philosophy of utilizing motorsports to build ever-better production vehicles, pushing machinery to the limits on track so the production cars are more capable and reliable. We look forward to having our motorsports program continue to be on a global stage and contributing even further to the development and engineering of exciting-to-drive vehicles.”
Toyota has a rich 60-year heritage in motorsports, winning nearly every significant motorsports championship and racing event across the globe under various brand names globally. TGRNA will specifically focus on delivering excitement to motorsports fans while continuously pushing all boundaries on-track to create better driving cars on the road.
Toyota’s NASCAR Cup Series entries will continue to carry the Camry nameplate, while its Xfinity Series entries race in GR Supras. NHRA teams in both Top Fuel and Funny Car already race under the TGR banner as well as Toyota’s Formula DRIFT drivers competing in the GR Corolla Hatchback, GR Supra and the GR86, while GT4 drivers in IMSA and SRO field the GR Supra GT4 EVO. The Toyota GR Cup will begin its third season of the signature spec series in 2025, racing the Toyota GR86. The GR badge on these vehicles represents Toyota’s dedication to producing exciting, race-inspired vehicles.
NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Toyota Tundras will continue to carry the TRD Pro badge and Toyota Off-Road Racing vehicles will continue to compete with the TRD nameplate.
The 2025 racing season officially kicks off at Daytona International Speedway, first with GR Supras taking the track in a four-hour GT4 race on Friday, January 24, 2025. The NASCAR season kicks off shortly after with the Cup Series Clash, making its debut at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Sunday, February 2, 2025, before the regular season kicks off in Daytona from February 12 to 16, 2025.
Dover Motor Speedway hosts the only First State stop on Wreaths Across America’s annual trek to honor America’s heroes at Arlington National Cemetery on Thursday, Dec. 12.
Wreaths Across America’s 60-vehicle convoy of tractor-trailers, Patriot Guard riders, veterans, Gold Star Families first responders and the Dover Motor Speedway pace car will parade to the Monster Monument at Victory Plaza for a ceremony before making its way to Arlington.
The Thursday, Dec. 12 schedule includes (all times approximate):
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Veterans Fair - Free and open to all veterans and their families. The Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit will also be set up at Dover Motor Speedway to give free tours.
12:15 p.m.: Convoy featuring 14-15 tractor-trailers, Patriot Guard rides and other law enforcement, Gold Star family members, first-responders and the Dover Motor Speedway pace car arrives on U.S. 13 at the Scarborough Road intersection.
12:45 p.m.: Convoy arrives at Dover Motor Speedway via Leipsic Road.
1:30 p.m.: Free ceremony begins at the Monster Monument at Victory Plaza, Dover Motor Speedway’s famous 46-foot landmark honoring the Monster Mile’s champions. Special programing with various presentations, live music, color guard, flyover and guest speakers, including Gold Star family members.
Mike Bagley, a SiriusXM NASCAR Radio host, Motor Racing Network and NBC Sports announcer, and Milford, Delaware-native, will emcee the ceremonies.
The tradition of placing handmade balsam wreaths on fallen heroes’ graves began with the Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine, in 1992. Related wreath-laying ceremonies are now held each December at 4,600-plus participating U.S. locations and overseas.
“We are honored to host Wreaths Across America’s wonderful holiday tradition as it makes its way to Arlington National Cemetery,” said Mike Tatoian, Dover Motor Speedway’s president and general manager. “There is no adequate way we can honor the sacrifice our veterans have made toward the growth and strength of our nation, but this event serves as a small token of our gratitude. We’re inviting the whole community to enjoy the ceremony with us on Thursday, Dec. 12.”
Additional information and more details on ceremony participants will be shared closer to the event date.
SPONSOR A WREATH, HELP DELAWARE CHILDREN:
In addition, supporters can sponsor a wreath at //www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/dovermotorspeedway to be placed at area cemeteries. For every wreath sponsored through this portal, $5 is donated to Speedway Children’s Charities, Dover Motor Speedway chapter, which raises money for Delaware children in need.
This just shows that auto racing can have a strong impact on the economy. Tulsa Raceway Park and Tulsa Speedway Turbocharge Oklahoma's Economy with Over $83 Million Annual Impact
Tulsa Raceway Park and Tulsa Speedway Turbocharge Oklahoma's Economy with
Over $83 Million Annual Impact
The Department of Motorsports Industry Research at the
United States Motorsports Association (USMA) has released a comprehensive independent study titled “Turbocharging Oklahoma: Discovering the Economic Power of Tulsa Raceway Park and Tulsa Speedway,” which details the substantial economic and socio-economic impacts of these two iconic racing venues on Tulsa and the state of Oklahoma.
Led by Dr.Robert Dunn, Ph.D., the study highlights a remarkable $83.2 million in annual economic output, along with job creation and significant boosts to local businesses and tourism.
Key findings of the report include:
● $83.2 Million in annual economic output generated by the racetracks.
● 547 jobs are supported annually across the local economy.
● $37.6 Million in increased local earnings benefiting area businesses each year.
● 370,000+ annual visitors, significantly contributing to local spending on accommodations, dining, fuel, groceries, shopping, and tourism.
● Economically Impactful Race Teams: Race teams contribute $28 Million annually, traveling an average of 325 miles from 28 different states to participate in races. Over 9,000 race cars were entered into events in 2023.
● Loyal Fan Base: 72% of fans identify as "very enthusiastic" or "absolute fanatics."
Additionally, 29% travel over 100 miles to attend, with fans coming from 29 different states.
The study reveals that Tulsa Raceway Park and Tulsa Speedway consistently provide greater economic contributions and attendance than other major sports and events in the region. For instance, while the Rocklahoma music festival attracts about 60,000 attendees, the two racetracks draw approximately 370,000. The Tulsa Drillers Baseball team hosts 69 events, whereas Tulsa Speedway and Tulsa Raceway Park collectively hold an average of
113 events annually.
In terms of economic impact, the Senior PGA, PGA Championship, and LIV Golf events combined generate around $100 million, while the motorsports facilities contribute $83million. However, the golf tournaments are typically one-time or sporadic events, whereas the racetracks deliver consistent year-after-year economic activity. Over the next five years,Tulsa Raceway Park and Tulsa Speedway are projected to generate over $415 million in economic impacts, underscoring their significant role in consistently boosting local and state economies.
“Tulsa Raceway Park and Tulsa Speedway are more than just racing facilities; they are vital economic engines for both the city and the state,” stated Dr. Robert Dunn, Ph.D., who led the research modeling and analysis for the USMA. “Our analysis is grounded in comprehensive data collection and careful, conservative modeling, ensuring a reliable foundation for our findings. It is evident that these racetracks significantly contribute to tourism, commerce, and employment, supporting sustained economic growth for Tulsa and the entire state of Oklahoma.”
As a secondary component of the study, the USMA Research Team conducted a hypothetical detailed analysis of Tulsa Raceway Park hosting a National NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) event. The findings indicate that such an event could enhance Tulsa’s economy by an estimated $32.2 million, further highlighting the racetracks' potential to drive significant economic activity in the region.
Statement from Tulsa Raceway Park Ownership:
"As owners of Tulsa Raceway Park, we’ve always believed in the power of motorsports to do more than just entertain—it drives real economic growth and strengthens the community," said Todd Martin and Keith Haney. "This study not only affirms what we’ve felt for years but gives us solid data that exceeded our expectations. The impact our venues have on local businesses, tourism, and job creation is tremendous.”
“Moving forward, we look forward to working more closely with local and state tourism, elected officials, business leaders, and the community to find ways we can create even more mutual benefits and growth opportunities for the region."
About Tulsa Raceway Park and Tulsa Speedway Since 1966, Tulsa Raceway Park has been a hub for motorsports enthusiasts, hosting major events and drawing large crowds from across the country. Tulsa Speedway, revitalized in recent years by business leaders Todd Martin and Keith Haney, adds dirt track excitement to the motorsports landscape, further boosting the city’s reputation as a motorsports destination.
About the USMA The United States Motorsports Association (USMA) is committed to educating the public and fostering strong connections between the motorsports community and government. The USMA conducts research and produces reports on the economic and social benefits of motorsports across the country.
For media or general inquiries, please contact: United States Motorsports Association Shawn Stewart: 619-857-1172 Email: shawn@unitedstatesmotorsports.com
Website: www.unitedstatesmotorsports.com
JR Motorsports announced today that Roto-Rooter, a leading innovator in the plumbing and drain cleaning industry, will return to the organization as primary partner for both Connor Zilisch and the No. 88 Chevrolet, and Carson Kvapil and the No. 1 Chevrolet for two races each during the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season. In addition to their return to the NXS, Roto-Rooter will also be part of JRM’s heralded Late Model program as a full-season associate next year.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Roto-Rooter back to JRM in 2025,” said JRM CEO Kelley Earnhardt Miller. “It’s great to see how much our partnership has grown already in the short time that we’ve been together and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
The origins of Roto-Rooter can be traced back to 1933, when Samuel Blanc created the first electric sewer-cleaning machine from a 1/6 HP Maytag washing machine motor, roller skate wheels and a 3/8-inch cable to turn the blades. The device could cut tree roots out of sewer lines where no digging was required. Just one year later, this prototype came to fruition and the name “Roto-Rooter” was born by virtue of Sam’s wife, Lettie. Roto-Rooter became one of the earliest franchisors in the country.
“Roto-Rooter is grateful to be associated with JR Motorsports for another year,” says Roto-Rooter President, Thad Reinhard. “This partnership brings together two hard working household names and leaders in their respective industries. We thank Dale and Kelley for building such a phenomenal team and we look forward to another exciting season on the track with such deserving, young race car drivers.”
In addition to the extension into 2025, Roto-Rooter will be featured as primary partner with Zilisch in his first NXS start at Homestead-Miami Speedway this October on board the No. 88 JRM Chevrolet.
During a meeting of the Montgomery County Agricultural Society on Wednesday, Oct. 9, the Fonda Fair Board – led by President Mark Wilmot – and Fonda promoter Brett Deyo jointly agreed on the acquisition of fresh clay for the Track of Champions.
After reviewing three samples, the board and speedway management opted to utilize clay obtained from a pit in Halfmoon, N.Y., roughly 50 miles from the fairgrounds.
“We looked at three different clay varieties provided by Carver Companies,” Deyo said. “The third sample was selected.
“All parties involved were pleased by the quality of the clay and believe it will allow the track to get slick without abrasion and tire wear.”
Hauling of the clay by Carver to the speedway is scheduled to begin Monday, Oct. 21 barring any setbacks.
Fonda Speedway track crews spent the entire ‘24 season working to manicure and remove stones from the surface.
The track’s pinnacle event – the Fonda 200 paying $53,000 to win in mid-September – was run on an extremely fast and smooth surface.
“We absolutely made huge gains throughout the season and the Fonda 200 was by far the best it had been,” Deyo said. “We are hoping to widen out the racing groove with the addition of the new clay.”
Deyo returns for his seventh season as Fonda’s promoter in April.
American Racer and Sunoco Race Fuels are back as the official tire and fuel, respectively, for the seventh consecutive year.
The 2024 Fonda Speedway Awards Banquet date will be announced shortly.
Since 1953, the Track of Champions Fonda Speedway has hosted the best in stock car racing. Under the management of BD Motorsports Media LLC, the speedway operates weekly on Saturday nights from April through August plus several special events. Fonda Speedway is located on the Montgomery County Fairgrounds off New York State Thruway Exit No. 28 at 21 S. Bridge Street Fonda, NY 12068.
Fonda Speedway is on the web at www.thefondaspeedway.com. To learn more, call the office at 518.915.4395, like Fonda Speedway on Facebook or follow the speedway on Twitter: @thefondaspdwy or Instagram: @fondaspeedway.
