PhilWhipple

For immediate release: RaceOnTexas.com PR Boyd's Jeffrey Abbey named 2023 Texas Short Track Driver-of-the-Year; Presented by RaceOnTexas.com and the Revved Up Sports Show SPRING, Texas (Nov. 13, 2023) — Each year, the two most recognized and respected media outlets in Texas choose two drivers who rise above their peers in on-track performance. They look at the numbers in weekly and touring series events, evaluating the individuals who had the most outstanding results. For 2023, one driver in the Touring Series category had truly a stellar season. In races through late October, Jeffrey Abbey, of Boyd, earned an impressive 10 wins, 30 top-five and 39 top-10 finishes in 53 starts overall, highlighted by the American Crate Late Model Series (ACLMS) championship. “Jeffrey was up on the wheel in both Late Models and Stock Cars,” RaceOnTexas.com founder and co-owner Chris David said. “This award recognizes drivers who rack up the wins, week-in and week-out. Despite facing stiff competition, Jeffrey is always a top contender. He's both fast and consistent.” Abbey started his fabulous season on Feb. 17-18 in Abilene, earning second and seventh-place finishes. He notched his first win of the year at Marshalltown on April 14, then doubled up at Rocket Raceway Park on May 27 with wins in IMCA Stock car and in the ACLMS A Main. “Jeffrey had one of those years every driver dreams about,” Revved Up Sports Show founder and host Rodney Rodriguez said. “To win that ACLMS points title against so many talented drivers takes a whole lot of hard work. We're thrilled to recognize his efforts in two very competitive divisions.” The Texas Short Track Driver-of-the-Year Award was created in 2021 to recognize drivers who stand above their peers in any given season. For that inaugural year, Farmersville native Matthew Day earned Weekly honors, while 'Rocket' Rodney Sanders, of Happy, Texas, won the Touring Series award. In 2022, College Station, Texas, racer Jared Maupin put in an outstanding season to claim the award in Weekly action, while Chris 'Win-Again' Henigan took top honors in touring series competition. Abbey will receive the same classy plaque the others received, and is truly deserving of the award. Created in 2020, the award recognizes a track promoter (or co-promoters, in some cases) who goes the extra mile to promote our sport. There's always one who gives sponsors a good return; who draws new fans to the track with creative ideas, maintains a solid fan base and solid car count at his or her track. Owen Pittman won the inaugural Promoter-of-the-Year Award for his efforts at Texana Raceway Park in Edna. In 2021, Rob and Libby Poor, of Abilene Speedway, rightfully got the nod; while former Rocket Raceway co-promoters Kevin Sustaire and Kevin Rogers were selected in 2022. Earlier this fall, 105 Motor Speedway's Joey Smith was named the 2023 recipient for what he and his team have done to revitalize the popular facility in Cleveland, Texas. To learn more about RaceOnTexas, go to www.raceontexas.com. For more information on the Revved Up Sports Show, visit them online at www.revvedupsportsshow.com. (Photo by Mike Frieri)

PLEASANTON, Texas (March 10, 2023) — As temperatures start to rise in South Texas, it's time for action at the region's hottest 1/4-mile dirt oval to heat up, as well. The sights and sounds of auto racing return to Pleasanton on Saturday, March 18, as I-37 Speedway presents its inaugural Spring Green. Spectator gates open at 4 p.m., with racing getting under way at 7 p.m. Headlining the show is a $1,000-to-win A Main for Late Models, along with Heats and Features for Factory Stock, IMCA Modifieds ($1,000-to-win Fast Shafts Qualifier), IMCA Southern Sport Mods and Sport Compacts. “This is shaping up to be a very exciting season opener,” speedway co-promoter Ray Doyon III said. “We've heard from a lot of racers of how jazzed they are to go racing this year. It's nice to see this level of interest, now our people have to be ready to execute a busy but thrilling show. “I think having the Practice Night on Friday will be a good time for all of us to shakedown our cars and get ready for competition. As a new season starts, that can make a big difference. Spring is always an exciting time in our sport; new cars, new wraps, and the chance just to soak up the atmosphere again.” This newly-renamed season opener truly represents the start of a new era at I-37. While Doyon and his partner Michael Keylich are embarking on their seventh year at I-37, they're raising the bar for 2023. A significant new year-end points fund for racers in all classes is just the start. “We've been working hard during the off-season to take our overall show to the next level,” Doyon added. “We've upgraded equipment on the Timing & Scoring side, trying to ensure everybody — racers and fans alike, can follow along Live on MyRacePass if they so desire. “We've also installed a new TV monitor in the Concessions area so our customers can enjoy the Live Streaming coverage from our friends at RaceOnTexas while they wait for their food. We're working to enhance our fan experience and to present a well-run, entertaining show every time out.” Strong car counts are expected in all five divisions, with anticipation of a new season building. Other highlights on the 2023 event schedule at I-37 Speedway this year include a $1,000-to-win feature for Limited Modifieds on April 1; another $1,000-to-win show for Late Models on May 20, and the annual DTK Memorial on October 26-28. All season long, I-37 is the place to be on Saturday nights. I-37 Speedway hosts a full season of racing action each year from mid-March through mid-October. Short track racing provides affordable entertainment in a family-friendly environment. Texas is filled with wonderful families passionate about their favorite sport, and auto racing is a perfect example. Officials would like to thank I-37's marketing partners for their continued support; including All In Designs, Bobcat of Pleasanton, Double K Landscaping & Irrigation, Hercules Foundation Repair, Hudson Brothers, Swenson Racing, Nogalitos Gear Company, 3D Landscaping, Iron Horse RV, Pick-N- Pull Used Auto Parts, VP Racing, Price Chevrolet, Russ Parker Construction, Bush's Chicken, Alamo Machinery Auctioneers, and On Demand Shirts. To learn more about I-37 Speedway, go to www.i37speedway.com.

HOUSTON, Texas (Sept. 3, 2022) — Management of the Southern Premier Racing Series (SPRS) has announced a partnership with Preferred Industrial Contractors, Inc. (PIC). The news was released on Friday as the series prepares for its debut on Saturday, Sept. 10, at Houston Motorsports Park. Headquartered in Baytown, Texas, Preferred Industrial Contractors, Inc., is a pipe fabrication, civil, electrical and maintenance company. A record of consistently completing projects on-time and under budget comes from a strong management team and commitment to excellence. Preferred Industrial Contractors maintains a highly qualified and vastly skilled staff that stands ready to meet any capital project or maintenance need. “I'm truly excited to have a company like Preferred Industrial Contractors on board with the SPRS,” series promoter John Alverson said. “I've known owner Cory Roper for years; his passion for short track racing is as deep as it gets. It's where he started, long before he made it to NASCAR. “We welcome them to the series, and ask our teams and fans to choose them for their industrial building and maintenance needs. That commitment to excellence philosophy is why they are the best.” At PIC, they take great pride in their work. They make an enormous commitment to their employees and clients by providing a safe, high-quality, hard-working environment. It's what workers and clients deserve, and it's what they receive on every job site. PIC offers a full range of site work services including Excavation and Grading; Trenching, Road Construction and Shoring. They also perform all aspects of concrete foundation work. PIC crews work with industrial steel, from engineering through fabrication to erection. With the highest quality craftsmen in the industry, PIC is the right contractor to handle all of your industrial structural needs. Series management would like to thank the valued partners who've already come on board the SPRS, including Houston-based Nationwide Trailers and Waco-based CellTech Trailers. As this series grows, it's support from solid companies like these and PIC that will propel it to new heights. Teams in the Southern Premier Racing Series will kick off their three-race Fall Shootout Series on September 10 at Houston Motorsports Park. Rounds two and three are set for Oct 15 and Nov. 5, 2022. Fans who can't make it out to the track can watch Live with a subscription at RaceOnTexas.com. Owner Chris David is a former racer at HMP, and supports this new series in every way. Officials at the SPRS thank Chris and his staff for all they do to support short track racing in the state of Texas. Follow the latest news from the Southern Premier Racing Series at www.facebook.com/raceSPRS.

Effort to preserve asphalt racing in Texas kicks into high gear HOUSTON, Texas (Aug. 8, 2022) — While it may have been silent for much of this year, the sights and sounds of short tack asphalt racing returned to Houston Motorsports Park's historic oval this past Saturday, as teams from the new Southern Premier Racing Series (SPRS) got their cars up to speed. Veteran driver development program owner and longtime racing supporter John Alverson hosted an open practice session for those planning to run in the series on Saturday, and says the turnout put a smile on his face. He also says input from teams about the resurrection of this oval has been positive. “I was more than happy to have between 25 and 30 cars on hand,” Alverson said. “There was a lot of talk about weather conditions the night before; chances for showers ranged from 40 to 60 percent, depending on who you asked. We went ahead with our plans, and I'm sure glad we did. “As it turned out, we never got a drop at the track. It rained all around us, but we didn't get it at HMP. So all of our on-track time went off as scheduled. We went with five to eight minute sessions, rotating between divisions as you would on a typical race day.” That first actual race may be a few weeks away, but teams are already striving to find more speed. Jake Wright drives the potent No. 48 Pro Truck entry and has enjoyed a ton of success on the famed oval. “We had a great test session this past weekend,” Wright said. “Our truck is fast and ready for Sept. 10. I saw a lot of new faces on Saturday, it's always great seeing new racers get interested. I hope that means a bigger car count so we can put on a good show for the fans. Without them, we would have no racing. “I'm very excited about seeing HMP come back to life and to be a part of it. That track is very special to me and my family, and we look forward to continue racing there. I can't thank John Alverson and the Southern Premier Racing Series enough for all of the effort and hard work being put into this deal.” For Alverson, seeing teams on-track last weekend and putting the right people in key positions is huge. “I knew getting an experienced Race Director like Terry Barden and a good announcer like Chuck Lacotta would be big for us. “Terry has been calling races since the old ROMCO days, and he'll run a good, clean show. I think we have a great team assembled and the right people in place. “I'm super excited to go racing in Houston on September 10, and sure hope fans will come out to share the passion of asphalt oval racing with us.” It wasn't just the race teams that did a little shakedown to their equipment on Saturday. “We had a lot of stuff to work through behind the scenes; things like testing Microphones, checking our scoring loops, figuring out what do we need for Tech, all of those various aspects of Operations that need to be handled. We learned some things we need to do, so our practice session was very fruitful.” Rounds 2 and 3 of the Fall Shootout Series are set for Oct 15 and Nov. 5, 2022. Be sure to follow the latest news from the Southern Premier Racing Series online at www.facebook.com/raceSPRS.

Texas racing personality Rodney Rodriguez to run Pure Stock race at Texana Raceway Former asphalt racer, respected radio show host puts Spotlight on entry-level division ROUND ROCK, Texas (July 26, 2022) — Well known motor sports radio show host and former Central Texas asphalt racer Rodney Rodriguez is about to make a return to the driver's seat, as the beloved host of the Revved Up Sports Show (RUSS) goes Pure Stock racing at Texana Raceway Park. Rodriguez, 51, is climbing behind the wheel once again this Saturday night, July 30, to showcase the exciting entry-level division in hopes it will draw new faces to the sport. Pure Stock utilizes a rules package that keeps costs low, while still maintaining a high level of competition and plenty of fun. “I have been offered chances to climb into various cars in recent years, but was always reluctant,” an honest Rodriguez said. “I know I'll probably be way off the pace, but I just want folks to take a good look at a class I firmly believe is an ideal place to start in short track racing. “Owen has always been proactive at Texana, with an eye towards drawing new faces to the sport. Pure Stock is still where the rapidly-growing Factory Stock started out; fairly affordable and mostly stock in nature. I'm pretty excited to climb in one and see how it feels. I may be a bit rusty after all these years.” Rodriguez used to drive a Super Stock entry at Central Texas Raceway in Kyle, Texas, back in the day. His familiar number 4 machine was a fan favorite, and he had a blast racing with his father (Ben) all over Central and South Texas. When asphalt racing went away, he picked up the microphone. “I kinda knew my voice would carry me way further in this sport than my driving talent ever would,” he admitted. “The sport was changing, things were changing in my life and it was simply time to step away. I miss the adrenaline rush, the competition side of it. But my place is in the booth, or my studio.” Rodriguez will pilot a car owned by Tony Blankenship, a man who supports this division in a big way. As host of the Revved Up Sports Show, Rodriguez and co-host Bobby Chaffee, another former asphalt racer (High 5 Racing/Legends) go Live at 6:30 p.m. CST every Monday night without fail to discuss racing news on the local, regional and National level. It's a lively 90-minute format that features in-depth Live interviews with drivers, team owners, promoters and others involved in the racing industry. In 2020, the Revved Up Sports Show and its media partner Race On Texas created the Texas Short Track Promoter-of-the-Year Award. This award recognizes outstanding efforts in short track racing promotion within the Lone Star State. Texana's Owen Pittman won the inaugural POTY award, while Rob & Libby Poor of Abilene Speedway were the recipients in 2021. In 2021, the two leading Texas media entities created the Texas Short Track Driver-of-the-Year award, with two categories to recognize both weekly and touring series drivers. Matthew Day was the inaugural DOTY recipient in Weekly action, while Rodney Sanders won the award in Touring series. Follow the Revved Up Sports Show all season long at www.revvedupsportsshow.com. (Autograph card image courtesy of Rachel Plant)

For immediate release: Whipple Motorsports Media Contact: Phil Whipple Tel: 207.689.6630 Max Cookson set for Super Late Model debut at Oxford Plains Speedway 2021 PASS Modified champion advances to new challenge PITTSFIELD, Maine (April 14, 2022) — When a former iRacing champion steps away from his computer to win a touring series title in his first full season of actual racing, it shows natural talent. When he goes out and wins six races on what has become one of the most competitive tours in New England, he's accomplished what few could achieve. This year, it's time for his next big challenge. Maine native and 2021 Pro All Stars Series (PASS) Modified champion Max Cookson is ready to make that move, as he prepares for his Super Late Model debut on Sunday, April 24, at Oxford Plains Speedway. After a stellar campaign in the open-wheel tour, he's taking the next logical step forward. “I feel like I have a lot of high expectations surrounding my debut,” Cookson said. “But really, I'm just very excited to get out into the big pond so to speak and see where we stack up. I know we'll have a lot of learning to do with a whole new car in an ultra-competitive division, but we're ready to get started.” Cookson went on a tear last year in the PASS Mods as that series experienced a phenomenal growth spurt over 2020. Despite that increased level of competition, the young athlete from Pittsfield knocked out six wins, 10 top-five and 12 top-10 finishes in 13 starts. It was quite a year. “I think the success we enjoyed last year kind of helped carry us through the winter,” he added. “But this year, in Week No. 1, we could have all the wind taken right out of our sails. I definitely think we're prepared, so we'll just go into the new season with realistic expectations and hope it turns out alright.” Now, the speeds pick up, the need for a perfect chassis setup becomes paramount and that high level of competition gets even higher. Yet Cookson is ready for it all, cautiously optimistic and eager to learn. “I think with everything being all new to us; the biggest thing will be learning the car, adapting to new setups and a different driving style,” he explained. “But I feel like we're ready for that, and I'll just have to adapt to it all. I think once I'm comfortable in the car, we'll be able to work at it and get it dialed in.” Oxford Plains Speedway will open its seventy-third consecutive season of racing (opened in 1950 as a 1/2-mile dirt oval) on April 24, and teams throughout western and central Maine are getting ready. The premier Super Late Model division was full with talent in 2021 and this year will see more of the same. As for the car itself, Max Cookson Racing will field a Distance chassis this year, powered by a GM 604 Crate engine. It's a solid combination that should carry the red-hot driver to solid finishes in due time. “We all know the strong record Distance cars have at Oxford, so I think we'll have a strong piece,” he concluded. “Our goals include winning the Rookie-of-the-Year award and to learn as much as we can. It'll be a whole lot tougher to do what we did in the Mods, but we're going to give it our best shot.” Max would like to thank the team's fine marketing partners, including Distance Racing Products, JM Builders, C&C Properties, B.R. Newhouse Construction, Larochelle Excavation, TLR Tractor Services, Team Huff Customs, Steves Property Management and Earnest Performance. To keep up with the latest results and news, be sure to follow Max Cookson Racing on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MaxCooksonRacing.

Racing America, Gulf Coast Racing Series Reach Broadcast Agreement CONCORD, North Carolina (March 29, 2022) — Officials at Racing America and the Gulf Coast Racing Series (GCRS) have announced an agreement for Live streaming coverage throughout the 2022 season at historic Mobile International Speedway, in Mobile, Alabama, and at Houston Motorsports Park in Houston, Texas. Along with the Gulf Coast Racing Series at Mobile, the agreement also covers the Wheel Man Racing Series’ visit to South Alabama Speedway on June 4, where the Gulf Coast Racing Series’ Wheel Man Sportsman Division will go toe-to-toe with teams from the Florida-based Wheel Man Racing Series. The Advance Auto Parts Pro Truck division will also be at SAS on that date. “I am excited to be a part of Racing America, I’m excited to partner with them to show off our racers and tracks,” said promoter Gina Schild-Knowles. “We have huge talent that I want to showcase, and I feel like Racing America provides us with the ideal platform to do so.” Veteran motorsports announcer and publicist Alan Dietz is Director of Broadcast for Racing America, and says he's ready to bring GCRS events to a national audience all season long. “All of us with Racing America are excited to add the Gulf Coast Racing Series to our increasingly growing platform of races,” Dietz said. “The majority of our telecasts will feature multiple cameras at historic Mobile International Speedway. Mobile is one of the most iconic tracks in the country and will provide our fans with memorable door-to-door action. Also, having a track in Texas as part of this package brings us an element no one else has.” Veteran P.A. Announcer, Revved Up Sports Show founder and host Rodney Rodriguez will play a key role in this venture. Rodriguez is set to launch a new show called 'Dirty Air' in the coming weeks, and will be covering/interviewing GCRS drivers all season long. The new show will air on RacingAmerica.tv, the nation's foremost provider of in-depth asphalt racing coverage. “It has been truly amazing to be a part of our series and watch our growth as it has materialized quickly,” Rodriguez said. “We are very much a homegrown racing series. To have the opportunity to join Racing America, the true innovator in short track racing presentation, is just outstanding. I look forward to bringing some fresh new content to race fans across the country.” In all, 16 events will be Streamed Live as part of this agreement. The majority of these events will take place at Mobile International Speedway, a 1/2-mile paved oval that opened in 1965. Run for many years by legendary promoter Lee Fields, Mobile is a gem. Also showcased will be Houston Motorsports Park, a beautiful 3/8-mile paved oval located just outside the City of Houston. The Gulf Coast Racing Series will open its 16-race 2022 schedule on Saturday, April 9, featuring the Advance Auto Parts Pro Trucks, Modifieds, Pro Late Models, Pro Stock, Legacy and Eco Stock divisions all in action at Mobile. If participation in last Saturday's Open Practice session is any indication, it's going to be a very competitive season for the Gulf Coast Racing Series. For more information, please go to www.facebook.com/nascargulfcoast.

For immediate release: Mike Carber Racing & AT Racing Development Contact: Austin Theriault Email: info@austintheriault.com Carson Brown Gearing Up For 600cc Micro Sprint Racing Legends driver will expand skills, gain seat time MOORESVILLE, North Carolina (Feb. 28, 2022) — For young athletes looking to gain seat time and expand their skill sets as they strive to ascend racing's ladder, there are a number of things they can do to expedite that journey. For 13-year-old Carson Brown, the chance to learn a different type of racing and gain valuable car control skills is one that has him excited. The rising star in asphalt Legends racing will add 600cc Micro Sprints to his schedule in 2022, with races at Millbridge Speedway in Salisbury, North Carolina. Brown, of Moseley, Virginia, will team up with Mike Carber Racing for this Micro Sprint venture. Carber is a former racer himself, with years of experience, good equipment, and plenty of knowledge. He says competition at Millbridge will be tough, but it's an ideal place for Brown to learn from the best. “You'll see a few stock car guys there like Christopher Bell, Sheldon Creed and Brett Moffitt,” Carber said. “It'll be interesting to see how Carson's transition over to a Micro on dirt will go. “From what I've seen in his Legends races, he's doing pretty good. I think he'll do well once he gets used to it. We'll see how things go at Millbridge this year, but I'm hoping to get up to Pennsylvania in July for their big Speedweek deal with six straight nights of action. Those guys are all good, so it'll be a great learning experience.” Brown may only have two years of racing under his belt (one in a Legend), but he's already turning heads. He won a big National event at Brushcreek Motorsports Complex in Peebles, Ohio, and has a pair of wins on the road course in Las Vegas on his resume, along with top-five finishes at tracks in North Carolina and Virginia. He kicked off his 2022 Legends campaign with the Winter Nationals in Florida. He ran 13 races in nine days, with four wins and only one finish outside the top five. This past week, Brown was busy competing in INEX Legends action in North Carolina Speedweek at the famed Fayetteville Motor Speedway. “I'm really excited about this new opportunity to expand my development on dirt in a Micro,” Brown said. “I appreciate Mike Carber Racing for helping me pursue my passion for this sport. The objective is to continue growing as a driver on dirt, and to gain experience that will help me in the long run.” As he works to expand his skills on dirt, Brown knows there will be challenges ahead. “It will definitely be tough to switch back and forth from the Legend to the Micro,” he added. The two cars drive completely different; Micro's are known to be very flat out. You need to drive them really hard if you want to be fast, but in the Legend, it's all about finesse. “You have to be easy on the throttle. So they are two completely different cars, but that's why I'm getting into one. It's to help me learn new skills I can apply in the future. I'm anxious to go testing and start this new chapter in my development.” Austin Theriault, Carson’s mentor and manager, says Brown is absorbing new information every time he races and will do well in a Micro. “I've been working with him at tracks already this year, and he's really progressing well. He has a natural feel for the Legends car. They require a smooth style, and he's making good strides. We've seen a number of former dirt drivers do well when they transition to asphalt. Carson will be served well by tackling this adventure into the Micro world.” Carson’s chance to hit the dirt track is drawing closer. Brown and Carber will be testing in the coming days in preparation for the season opener at Millbridge Speedway, which is scheduled for Wednesday, March 9. For more on Carson Brown, please like him on Facebook (CarsonBrownRacing), and on Instagram (@Carsonbrownracing).

For immediate release: GCRS Public Relations Contact: Gina Schild-Knowles Contact: 713-907-0906 Texas Super Stocks adapting to Wheel Man Series rules package for 2022 Expanded tour to run South Alabama Speedway on June 4 HOUSTON, Texas (Feb. 18, 2022) — Officials of the Gulf Coast Racing Series (GCRS) have announced plans to adapt their popular Texas Super Stock division to current rules in the Florida-based Wheel Man Sportsman Series. The class will now be known as the Wheel Man Sportsman division. This move comes as tracks and sanctioning bodies look to align themselves in collaborative efforts to grow and enhance affordable divisions. The newly renamed division will run a few races at the newly-revived Mobile International Speedway this year, and will also compete against the Wheel Man Series teams at South Alabama Speedway on Saturday, June 4. “I'm excited because this is another class we're able to bring from Texas to race at Mobile, offering the Texas racers more racing,” Gulf Coast Racing Series Director Gina Schild-Knowles said. “It also will give us a great base of racers to add other WMS teams that may want to come race with us here.” Knowles has been working with Wheel Man Series director Ricky Brooks. “I'm working with Ricky on getting these guys included into the WMS points system, so in 2023 we can have some Alabama WMS racers and Florida WMS racers, maybe have two state championships and crown one Overall Champion based on both of those points.” Brooks runs the Wheel Man Series much as he runs Technical Inspection at Five Flags; with an eye towards thorough, consistent rules enforcement and a level playing field. He knows the Texas Super Stocks are full of talented teams, and welcomes those Lone Star State racers to the series. “I think Gina is making a good move here,” Brooks said. “We've spoken with several of her drivers about this, their cars are fairly similar and most feel they will be pretty competitive. I think the event at South Alabama Speedway in June will be a great night. “I'm thrilled to see what she's doing at Mobile,” he added. “She has a loyal following in Texas. I want her to succeed in Mobile, and we welcome her teams to our Wheel Man Series events any time they come. Gina has the right idea to build for the future.” The Advance Auto Parts Pro Trucks will also be a part of the show at South Alabama Speedway on June 4, making for a thrilling show for fans in attendance. Super Stock racer Beau Bukowski, of New Braunfels, says the timing for this move is right in 2022. “I think this is the best move Gina has made for asphalt racing in Texas,” Bukowski said. “This class is a no-brainer, since it's fairly affordable and the cars are still pretty racy. We're building a new car to go run that Wheel Man Series race in June, and excited about it. I'm all on board with these changes.” Kody Brusso, of Pensacola, Florida, is a proven winner throughout the Deep South. She loves traveling to new tracks, learning new skills and tackling new challenges. She says Texas teams add to the Wheel Man Series mix. “I think Gina has the right idea to grow that former Super Stock class,” Brusso said. “Those cars are a lot like the Sportsman cars that run the Wheel Man Series, and the crossover should produce some great racing. It's affordable, and everybody is on equal ground, which is why the racing is so close. “Gina is one of those creative promoters who have a real passion for the weekly warriors. It's those teams that will help her revive Mobile, not a visiting Super or Pro Late Model race. She appreciates every team that races with her Gulf Coast series; I know that from experience. This is a smart move.” The Gulf Coast Racing Series will open its 2022 campaign on Saturday, March 26, at the beautiful high-banked 1/2-mile Mobile International Speedway in Irvington, Alabama. For more information, please go to www.facebook.com/nascargulfcoast. https://www.texasshorttrackracingseries.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Gulf-Coast-2022-Wheelman-rules.pdf

For immediate release: KR Promotions PR Contact: Kevin Rogers Tel: 972.971.7391 Second annual Great American Racing Show set for Jan. 21-22; 14th annual Battle at the Barn Presented by Casey's also on tap ROCKWALL, Texas (Dec. 13, 2021) — While a majority of the short track races for 2021 have been completed around Texas and the rest of the Southern Plains, there are a few off-season trade shows on tap for industry members and racers as they prepare for their respective 2022 seasons. Officials at KR Promotions are hard at work getting ready for the second annual Great American Racing Show, presented by My Race Pass, slated for January 21-22 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. This trade show is held in conjunction with the 14th annual 'Battle at the Barn,' an indoor Kart racing event. Admission is just $5 per day for adults. Door open on Friday at 3 p.m. and close at 8 p.m., while show hours on Saturday run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The display area covers 3,600 square feet and will feature 200 booths. Vendors will include chassis, parts and representatives from major motorsports companies. “The 2022 version of the Great American Racing Show is looking good as we head into the Holidays,” event co-promoter Kevin Rogers said. “I've been talking with vendors, and they're all excited to be a part of it next month. Short track racing had a very strong year, I feel this show will reflect that fact. “We learned a whole lot last year and have applied that to our plans for the second annual. These off-season trade shows play a key role in our industry, and always have. It's a chance to draw new business, and a chance for fans to get excited about the new season ahead. I think we're in for a great show.” The 14th annual Battle at the Barn will take place in the Jacobson Building at the Fairgrounds. The event will feature Kart racers from around the Midwest and Southern Plains battling it out for trophies and bragging rights. On Friday the Elite 8 and Powder Puff classes will kick off the program at 7 p.m. On Saturday, racing will begin with the first of two qualifying rounds at 12 p.m., with second round qualifying slated to roll off at 2:30. Features for all divisions will get under way at 5:30 p.m. as a great event draws to a conclusion. This exciting indoor competition is highly-anticipated by many racers. “The Battle at the Barn will deliver edge-of-your-seat racing both Friday and Saturday,” Rogers added. “The Kart racing is a fun part of the weekend we all enjoy, especially for parents. Adults have their big events like the recently completed Gateway Dirt Nationals in St. Louis; we have our own indoor show.” The second annual Great American Racing Show is co-promoted by Toby Kruse, promoter at the famed Marshalltown Speedway. Kruse handles the racing program, while Rogers coordinates the trade show. Together, they present a little something for everybody. A trade show and indoor Kart race are ideal. KR Promotions is a social media and event marketing consultant company with programs designed to fit your needs. From press releases, to merchandising and complete event planning, KR Promotions can do the job right with great results. For more information, please go to www.krpromotionsllc.com.

That Texas Late Model Stampede on March 19 sure catches my eye! Yes sir! Can't wait to see that one, great action-packed schedule overall. Something for every race fan there!

I've become a big fan of the Revved Up Sports Show this year, and am thrilled to see this partnership! Rodney and Bobby do a great job with guests and news, this partnership is a natural fit. The sky is the limit in 2022, can't wait for it!

For immediate release: Revved Up Sports PR Rob and Libby Poor named 2021 Texas Short Track Promoters-of-the-Year Operators of Abilene Speedway recognized by state's top media entities AUSTIN, Texas (Nov. 2, 2021) — Every year in the Lone Star State of Texas, two media entities recognize the efforts of an individual track promoter who rises above the rest. In 2020, RaceOnTexas and the Revved Up Sports Show (RUSS) recognized Owen Pittman, of Texana Raceway Park in Edna. On Monday night's edition of the show, it was announced that longtime and respected track operators Rob and Libby Poor, of Abilene Speedway, are the recipients of this year's Texas Short Track Promoter-of-the-Year Award. A four-man selection committee concluded their talks and voting in late October. “I'm trying not to tear up, but this is really a neat deal to be recognized like this,” the energetic and passionate Libby said upon learning of the award. “Rob and I put our blood, sweat and tears into this place. We take great pride in it, and always strive to take car of our racers and fans. So this is huge. “It's a tough sport these days; you tend to hear the negative side a lot more than you get compliments, that's for sure. Our Ice Breaker was canceled this year, but once we got rolling we had a strong year.” Poor says things are different up in Abilene, a town known more for its Rodeo than short track racing. “We have to work a little harder here because we don't have the resources some other track owners have,” Poor added. “But that's Okay; Rob and I are used to that and we do the best we can with what we have available to us. We may be the only track operators left in Texas who do this for a living.” Rob Poor bought Abilene Speedway in 2001 and promoted his first full season the following year. He's been the heartbeat of West Texas Racing for 20 years now, and is continuing a tradition that racers love. Last year he did a major overhaul on the track, widening it to produce some of the best racing in Texas. Rob and Libby are the kind of promoters that do what the say and stick to it. Rob is a promoter that not only puts his own money on the line, but puts his passion into the track, as well. Rob and Libby are what racing needs more of, they call all the racers and talk to them on the phone to see if they are coming to race. No racer goes to Abilene without meeting them and feeling like family as if they are at home. Rob and Libby are the strong point of racing in Texas and look to do even more in the west in 2022. “This state is full of hard-working track operators and promoters,” RUSS host Rodney Rodriguez said. “It was a difficult job again this year for the guys, and I know there were some very lively talks among committee members. They hashed it out for us, and we're very pleased they chose Rob and Libby.” To follow the Revved Up Sports Show, go to www.revvedupsportsshow.com. To become a subscriber to SpeedPass at RaceOnTexas and start enjoying some great Live streaming action from tracks across Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas, please go to www.raceontexas.com.

For immediate release: STLMS Public Relations Contact: Kody Hardage Tel: 210-827-0229 Texana Raceway Park next stop for Southern Touring Late Model Series Big names gearing up for Memorial Day weekend Twin-Bill SAN ANTONIO, Texas (May 19, 2021) — Down in southeast Texas, there's a racy little oval that's undergoing a significant transformation. With a new, ambitious owner in Cord Beard and an award-winning promoter in Owen Pittman, Texana Raceway Park in Edna has become a true gem. On Memorial Day weekend, that shining diamond will roar to life with the sounds of Late Model racing, as the Southern Touring Late Model Series (STLMS) gears up for the third and fourth points races on their 2021 schedule on Saturday and Sunday, May 29-30. Leading the charge into Texana are veteran pilots Dean Abbey, Philip Houston and Brandon Brzozowski. Abbey, of Boyd, Texas, picked up a win at Devil's Bowl Speedway on May 8 in a DFW Crate Late Model Series event. His skills and equipment are among the very best. Series promoter Kody Hardage is excited about the return to Texana, and says the show will be a not-to-miss affair for area fans. The Late Models are well-suited to the layout and can really perform. “I grew up in the Victoria area, and Texana was one of the tracks I visited as a kid,” Hardage said. “Texana has been a track that has always produced good racing since the series started. After taking a couple years away, we returned last year to cap off our season. Owen has had track prep on point for a multi-groove track all season, and I can't wait to bring this series back home for Memorial Day Weekend.” Last weekend, the series kicked off the new campaign with a western swing to West Texas Raceway in Lubbock on Friday, and a visit to Route 66 Motor Speedway in Amarillo on Saturday. Friday night, Zach Nickell capitalized when leader Colton Horner suffered a mechanical failure and hung on to notch his first career Late Model feature victory. Kip Hughes settled for second, while Sinton native Cody Leonard finished third. Hayden Ross and Troy Bynum completed the top five. Horner found redemption on Saturday, leading every lap of the A Main at Route 66 Motor Speedway. Ross made a valiant late-race charge yet settled for second, while Joe Godsey filled out the podium. Houston and Bynum finished fourth and fifth, respectively. Brzozowski, of La Vernia, Texas, had a rough start to his 2021 season. Friday's visit to Lubbock produced a disappointing 13th-place finish, while Saturday's race at Route 66 brought a 15th-place finish out of 19 cars. He's looking to break out at Texana, and says he's anxious for a visit to Edna. “For 2021, I have partnered up with Kody Hardage, owner of the No. 12 Longhorn chassis,” Brzozowski said. “I'll be driving it at all the STLMS events. My first race in a Late Model was back in 2015 at Texana. I’ve always enjoyed the track and am really looking forward to racing there again.” Post time for Hot Laps at Texana on Saturday, May 29 is set for 7 p.m., while Sunday's show gets under way at 6:30. For more information, please go to www.stlms.com.

Chad Heath just misses another top-10 in Ardmore; Maine native gains 12 spots in stout 29-car field LAMESA, Texas (May 3, 2021) — After steady rains in north Texas put a major damper on his racing plans, IMCA Southern Sport Mod driver Chad Heath returned to the ovals this past Saturday night, charging from 23rd to earn a respectable 11th-place finish at Southern Oklahoma Speedway. Heath was in full scramble mode in the days leading up Saturday's contest, with damage to repair from a recent outing in Abilene, TX, and the usual setup work to accomplish. Once he arrived at the track, he realized the car counts were up and it would be a challenge to score more valuable IMCA points. “With all of the rain-outs that have been happening around Texas, the pits were packed in Ardmore on Saturday,” Heath said. “With the TOMS Mod tour there, 30 Sport Mods and all of their other classes, it was pretty full. A lot of guys who don't usually run there were looking to score points, just as I was.” When it came time for the heats, Heath knew it was time to get up on the wheel. It was go, or miss out. “I need to work on my heat race setup for that track a little more, because I seem to struggle in those heats. I finished sixth in mine, which put me in 23rd for the feature. With 29 cars starting, I knew what I had to do. It's a good thing the place is so wide, because I had to use it all.” Once they waved the green flag for the A Main, Heath did what he does best. He settled in, stayed focused and began his march forward as the car's handling started to come around. Despite a field full of heavy-hitters from around the region, he managed to wheel his way almost up into the top-10. “The track was getting pretty rough as the night progressed,” Heath added. “There were some ruts down on the bottom, but I managed to use that line at times to pass a few cars. They kept the top dry-slick, or at least it was drier than the bottom was. I passed some high, and I passed a few down low. “I was shooting for a top-10 again, obviously, but fell a little short. I just needed to race and earn some more points towards that IMCA National Rookie-of-the-Year crown I'm chasing. The trip paid off, even if we missed the top 10. I love racing in Ardmore, that track has so much room to race it's a blast.” Heath, like every other racer in north Texas and across the entire Lone Star State, will hope for warm sunshine this week so he can return to the tracks he loves to run. Steady rains have eased the severe drought conditions which have plagued the southern plains, they just haven't done much for race teams. Next up for Chad and the No. 09k Sport Mod entry is a return visit to Boyd Raceway on Friday, May 7. (Photo credit: Mike Frieri)

New youth program introduced at Cotton Bowl Speedway 'Crash Course 101' latest video now posted online PAIGE, Texas (May 2, 2021) — Racers across the Great State of Texas can understand the term “wholesale changes” with ease. And major changes are exactly what's been happening at RaceOnTexas, where the SpeedPass Live streaming service, weekly podcasts, race recaps and driver feature stories have brought a new level of coverage to short track racing. Now, a fresh new program being implemented at Cotton Bowl Speedway (in partnership with RoT) designed to attract and integrate kids into racing is ready for Prime Time. Officials at Cotton Bowl Speedway and RaceOnTexas are proud to announce “Crash Course 101” a new program for students that provides a 'cash course' in journalism and auto racing. “Everything we've been doing at full throttle these last few months has been aimed at refining and enhancing the product for fans and racers,” RaceOnTexas marketing director Aaron Brungot said. “The new multi-cam Live shows, the prerace shows at Cotton Bowl, all of it really enhances what we do. “This new program for kids is going over very well, with 21 kids signed up already. The interest is there, they all want to get out to the track soon and interview some drivers. We've taken some to Cotton Bowl and the kids are working on story lines for the summer right now. It's an exciting project.” To drop the green flag on this new program, two young “junior reporters” were given full media access and credentials at Cotton Bowl Speedway on Saturday, April 17. The students spent some quality time with Sprint car driver Theresa Waller, learning what it takes to compete at that level. “To say the girls received a 'crash course' in Sprint car racing that night is pretty accurate,” Brungot added. “Theresa took the time to explain things to them, teaching them as they asked their questions. It's only the beginning, but we're up and running with it now. It's fun to see it all come together.” Up next for these eager young student reporters will be to go from concept to feature stories. That time spent with Theresa Waller produced some great content, and they're working on another story we know you'll find of interest regarding a recent incident that CBS flagman Nathan Lavender went through. “Nathan is an educator himself, so he has immersed himself into this thing and explained to the girls how a scary incident on-track has forced him to add a helmet to his pre-race ritual before climbing the flag stand. It's just one of the many stories racing offers, an ideal arena for these kids to learn so much.” Kart racing attracts kid to racing, now 'Crash Course 101' is doing that in a slightly different manner. RaceOnTexas is the Deep South's fastest-growing motor sports media outlet. With over 100 Live shows in 2021, many with multi-cam views, lineup graphics and scoring information, they've brought network quality coverage to short track auto racing in Texas and the surrounding states. Add weekly Track Talk podcasts with host Caleb McFarland, a YouTube channel with tons of content, weekly driver spotlight features and race recaps from veteran journalist Phil Whipple, weekly emails with a comprehensive look back and ahead, and you have a full-service, world-class media entity. To learn more and to subscribe to SpeedPass today, go to www.raceontexas.com. To learn more about the great racing at Cotton Bowl Speedway, go to www.racecbs.com.

Chad Heath scores second top-10 finish at Boyd, Battles through adversity at Cotton Bowl LAMESA, Texas (April 12, 2021) — When short track racers imitate baseball teams and pull off a string of doubleheaders, there are bound to be a few weekends when it's a split between good and bad. For 40-year-old IMCA Southern Sport Mod driver Chad Heath, a Friday-Saturday Twin-bill this past weekend brought a mixed bag of results. The Maine native salvaged a solid eighth-place finish despite a mechanical failure on Friday night at Boyd Raceway, then battled to a 16th-place finish at Cotton Bowl on Saturday. It began with a fourth-place finish in his Heat at Boyd, which placed him fifth in the lineup for a 20-lap A Main. Windy conditions made for a dry, slick track, yet Heath's chassis setup kept him in contention. “The car was handling well, but I could hear something in the rear of the car and knew I had something broken in the drive-train,” Heath said. “I tore it apart after the feature and discovered the issue, it had broken pieces of gears and would need a rebuild. I had to pull off the track with two laps remaining.” After a visual inspection to that damaged rear end revealed extensive damage, Heath chose to head south to Paige, Texas, home of Cotton Bowl Speedway. Once there, Heath and his friend Mike Fortier got the parts replaced, but also discovered a bent axle. That also got replaced, and it time for Hot Laps. “Our Saturday turned out to be pretty busy working on the car, but on paid off,” Heath explained. “It was fast during my Heat, and it was fast in the feature. I was involved in an incident, was put to the rear and had to work my way back up through the field. I was up to 10th at one point prior to that setback.” The altercation with another racer at Cotton Bowl saw the two men having a civil conversation in the pit area. Feelings were expressed, and after that chat the incident was put behind them. Short track racing is often an emotionally-charged sport; how you control those feelings is what matters most. A rough outing at Cotton Bowl was truly the first real setback Heath has endured in 2021. Thus far since he kicked things off at the Southern Stampede in Ardmore, Oklahoma, he's made 10 starts, has posted one top-five and six top-10 finishes. Not bad for only his second full season of racing. “Saturday night was less than ideal, but overall our season continues to go fairly well,” Heath added. “Things get intense at times no mater where we race, but that is part of the game. This hobby takes lots of time and money, so everybody wants to get the best results they can. We all battle for the same spots. “I've already fixed the front bumper of my car and repaired the sheet metal damage. I know there will be more contact this season but hope I can steer clear of the carnage. It's an ongoing battle I enjoy.” Next up for the self-proclaimed 'Dysfunctional Veteran' is yet another twin-bill of racing on Friday and Saturday nights. At this time, it looks like another trip to Boyd and ride to Southern Oklahoma ahead. Heath is a proud U.S Military Veteran who served our country in Iraq. To fulfill his lifelong dream of being out on the short tracks on the weekends is making his civilian life truly satisfying and rewarding. To follow this dedicated IMCA racer all season, go to www.facebook.com/chadheath09k. (Photo credit: Rachel Plant)

Chad Heath scores top-10 finish in debut at Boyd Raceway, Earns more valuable IMCA points in Southern Oklahoma LAMESA, Texas (April 5, 2021) — Maine native and sophomore dirt track driver Chad Heath scored a solid top-10 finish in his debut at Boyd Raceway (Boyd, TX) on Friday, then capped the weekend with a respectable 13th-place run Saturday in his third race of the season at Southern Oklahoma Speedway. Heath drove the Wicked Race Cars-built No. 09k entry to a fourth-place finish in his Heat at Boyd. After making a few changes to his setup, he started the A Main 10th in a 14-car field. With some heads-up driving and a better-handling car, he powered on to cross the stripe in seventh place. “I really loved racing at Boyd Raceway,” Heath said. “It did get dry-slick early in the night, I think the wind had an affect on track conditions. I learned as the night went on and came away with another top-10 finish. It's what I need to do this year as the competition in Sport Mod becomes more intense.” On Saturday, it was back north to Ardmore, Oklahoma, for a return visit to the beautiful Southern Oklahoma Speedway. The DFW Local Late Models were in town, which meant a dry, slick track right off the bat. Saturday also saw Heath changing out a bad axle and seal, with a fellow racer helping out. “Dan Day and I raced door-to-door Friday night at Boyd, but when he saw me having problems on Saturday he walked over to offer me a new axle,” Heath said. “I really appreciated that, and hope I am earning respect from these guys. The axle and new seal got me back on track for Saturday night.” Day, of Farmersville, Texas, finished eighth in the A Main, while his son Matthew finished third. There was one rather scary moment in qualifying, when a car spun directly in front of Heath. “I saw him snap around and really had to yank the car quickly to get out around the outside of him,” Heath explained. “I somehow managed to steer clear of him and avoid the outside retaining wall. It got my attention, I'll tell you that. It always pays to be alert, because things happen pretty fast out there.” In the A Main, Heath's read end problems had vanished, yet he had another small problem to battle. “I was losing air in my right front tire towards the end, but there was enough left in it to limp on home,” a dejected Heath explained after his disappointing 13th-place finish. “I'm always striving to land inside the top 10, but last night it just got away from us. Overall, it was still a solid weekend.” Heath is chasing IMCA Southern Sport Mod Rookie-of-the-Year points, and continues to lead the national standings. As of the previous weekend's races (through March 27), Heath led by 61 points over Ricky Johnston. It's still relatively early with tons of racing, yet it's a strong start towards achieving that goal. “It is a grind with all of this travel, running at two tracks every weekend,” Heath added. “But I'm going to keep going to different tracks as often as I can. I am learning how to adapt to different layouts, and I'm earning maximum points towards my ROTY goal. I'm having fun and learning a ton every week.” Up next for Chad Heath Racing and the No. 09k IMCA Southern Sport Mod entry is another two-race weekend on April 9-10, more than likely featuring a return visit to Boyd on Friday and to Ardmore on Saturday. To follow the team's progress all season long, go to www.facebook.com/chadheath09k.

LAMESA, Texas (March 28, 2021) — With temperatures going up and race season in full swing throughout the deep south, it's starting to feel a lot like summer for one Maine native now racing in Texas and Oklahoma. Chad Heath continued his busy string of short track races, posting respectable finishes at the Heart O' Texas Speedway (Elm Mott) and Cotton Bowl Speedway (Paige) over the weekend. Friday he started 19th and drove to a 16th-place finish at HoT and capped the weekend with an 8th-place run (after starting eighth) at CBS. “I found Heart O' Texas to be a fast, slick and challenging track,” Heath said. “With the Late Models there, it got slick earlier than normal. I struggled in my heat and tried to get ready for the B Main. As we rolled out onto the track for that, they called us back in and told us we all had made the A Main.” That decision by officials prevented Heath from risking damage to his car before the feature. It offered a chance to adjust and prepare for the A Main, a race Heath knew would be intense. “The competition in Southern Sport Mods at Heart O' Texas is some of the most intense in the entire state,” Heath said. “I figured it was a good chance to see how I measure up against those guys, to see if I could run with them. I had a few scary moments, but we earned some points and didn't wreck the car.” On Saturday, it was off to the friendly confines of Cotton Bowl, where promoter Mary Ann Naumann and her staff were hosting Round 2 of their 2021 scheduled points races. The No. 09k Wicked Race Cars-built entry of Heath was fast in qualifying, with a third-place finish in his Heat. “Conditions were a lot more like the day I tested there a month or so ago,” Heath explained. “The car handled more like I expected it to this time. I got hung up in traffic a while early in the feature, but once I got free I could begin to make some headway. I just love Cotton Bowl, there's room to race.” Heath's goal of going after IMCA Southern Sport Mod Rookie-of-the-Year honors this year will take a huge effort. Lots of travel, lots of busy Friday and Saturday nights, but also a ton of learning. As a man who keeps critical generators running for a living, this type of challenge is an ideal pastime. “I love to learn, I love racing and this year I'm getting to compete at some great tracks here in Texas,” he added. “Heart O' Texas is a fast little bullring, a lot like Thunder Road Speedbowl up in Vermont. It may be dirt instead of asphalt, but you need to be up on the wheel every lap. It's an absolute blast. “And Cotton Bowl is a driver's track, with long straightaways that let you stretch your legs. It takes big power and a good chassis setup to be successful there. If I can learn to run near the front there, I will be doing a big stroke of business. These Sport Mod guys down here are good, and they don't budge at all.” To follow Chad's progress throughout the season, go to www.facebook.com/chadheath09k. (Photo credit: Rachel Plant)

For immediate release: Chad Heath Racing PR Contact: Phil Whipple Tel: 207.689.6630 Heath comes from last to 10th at Southern Oklahoma Speedway Maine native battles adversity to salvage second trip to SOS ARDMORE, Oklahoma (March 22, 2021) — In short track auto racing, whether at the hobby or professional level, the true measure of a driver is how well he faces adversity. On an off night, it's easy to just coast around and let the chips fall where they may. Yet for Maine native and Texas-based driver Chad Heath, an ill-handling race car just means it will be a little tougher to earn a decent finish. Heath, of Lamesa, made the most of his second visit to Southern Oklahoma Speedway on Saturday, earning a solid 10th-place finish after starting at the back. “I had the car turning almost too well in Hot Laps,” Heath explained. “The track turned dry-slick faster than I expected. I made a few changes for the feature, and it really brought it around. It felt good to pass some of those guys, and it's a great learning experience every time I go up to that track.” Heath is diving into his sophomore season in the ultra-competitive world of IMCA Southern Sport Mod racing with passion. In just just three starts, he's recorded two top-10 (at SOS) and one top-five finish (at Cotton Bowl Speedway). It's been an impressive start for the former iRacing addict. “It's early yet, with a lot of racing ahead of us this spring and summer,” Heath added. “It does feel good to be off to a strong start, a pair of top-10s and that top-five last Saturday at Cotton Bowl was a big boost to my confidence. I have lots to learn, but I'm absorbing knowledge every time I compete. “The competition at Southern Oklahoma Speedway is about as tough as it gets. I love a good challenge, so I drive up there to race, to learn, and to improve my program. I'm gaining with each trip.” Chad Heath Racing would like to thank Black Spot Design Lab in Lubbock, Texas; Rachel Plant “The Picture Taker” and Whipple Motorsports Media for their support in 2021. For quality graphics, signs, banners and high-end apparel, let the Black Spot Design Lab be your first choice. For more information, go to www.blackspotdesignlab.com. “I also need to take a minute to thank all the great folks back in my hometown of Phillips, Maine, for supporting my racing efforts down here. It means a ton to have them follow along and be so kind. I'm really enjoying this sport, and I come from a place where auto racing is a way of life.” Follow this race team throughout the season at www.facebook.com/chadheath09k.

For immediate release: Chad Heath Racing Contact: Phil Whipple Tel: 207.689.6630 Chad Heath doubles up with pair of top-10 finishes in two states Southern Stampede, Cotton Bowl kind to Maine native LAMESA, Texas (March 15, 2021) — For Maine native and north Texas resident Chad Heath, racing in two southern states on the same weekend was an amazing experience. Competing at two tracks he'd never raced on before, he dug deep and found success against some very stiff competition. The former iRacing enthusiast turned dirt-track racer pulled off a pair of top-10 runs in Oklahoma and Texas. It began with a solid ninth-place run on Friday night in the IMCA Southern Stampede at Southern Oklahoma Speedway in Ardmore, then continued with a strong fifth-place finish in the season opener at Cotton Bowl Speedway in Paige, Texas, on Saturday. “After a big disappointment on Thursday night, it sure felt good to bounce back with decent runs in the next two outings,” Heath said. “I missed the A Main by one spot on Thursday, so I was determined to make the show on Friday night. The level of competition up there was pretty intense. “All I had done was practice at Cotton Bowl before, so this was my first actual race there. They run hard all night there, and it's a well prepared, fast track. Once I figured out where to run and got comfortable there, it kinda came together. There are some tough racers in Sport Mod at Cotton Bowl.” Heath is beginning his second season of driving on dirt ovals after being around the sport his entire life. He has a cousin from his home state of Maine who is in two different Hall of Fame's, the New England Auto Racing Hall of Fame and the Maine Motorsports Hall of Fame. You may have heard of the three-time Oxford 250 winner and leader in feature wins there (151), Mr. Mike Rowe. “Mike made his mark in the sport decades ago, and somehow continues to run competitively at the age of 70 in an asphalt Super Late Model. I've always admired his tenacity and skills on any oval. He has that ability to adapt to track conditions and his car; I'm hoping to work on those skills myself.” Heath is just one of hundreds of IMCA Southern SportMod racers spread around the deep south chasing a dream. They dream of a National title, of running as many races as possible and of course, of enjoying quality time at the track with friends and family. For Heath, it's a natural way of life. “While I may not have been behind the wheel of a race car all these years, I've followed the sport closely and known lots of lifelong drivers. Today, I have a good car and can learn from others as I go along. I'm having a blast down here and loving the dirt track life. It sure helps when I run well.” Heath will now focus on his goal of winning IMCA Southern SportMod Rookie-of-the-Year honors for 2021. Last year, he earned Rookie-of-the-Year honors at West Texas Raceway in their Limited Modified class. In eight starts, he earned three top-10 finishes, including a pair of top-fives. To read race recaps and see photos from the 2021 season, visit the team's Facebook page often at www.facebook.com/chadheathracing. (Photo credit: Rachel Plant)

For immediate release: RaceOnTexas.com PR Contact: Phil Whipple Tel: 207.689.6630 New Texas Short Track Driver of the Year Award announced on Revved Up Sports Weekly, touring series drivers eligible for statewide recognition SPRING, Texas (Feb. 1, 2021) — Officials at RaceOnTexas.com and the Revved Up Sports Show (RUSS) have announced the addition of a new award to compliment their Promoter of the Year program implemented in 2020. Created to recognize successful drivers, this one was also long overdue. Starting in November of this year, the two statewide media entities will honor the 'Texas Short Track Driver of the Year' in two categories; weekly point chasers and touring series drivers. The criteria examined will include a driver's skills interacting with media along with on-track performance. “Every season, we see one driver rise above the others with wins and top fives,” RaceOnTexas founder and co-owner Chris David said. “Despite the rising level of competition in many classes, they somehow manages to dominate over their rivals. It's time we recognize that level of excellence.” After the regular points season has concluded this fall, a three-man panel will review driver statistics around the state to determine a winner in that category. Once the touring series have run their finales, a recipient for Touring Series Driver of the Year can also be determined. Both must be included. “I think to be fair, we have to look at the performances of the many talented touring series guys out there, as well,” RUSS founder and co-host Rodney Rodriguez said. “When you consider the Late Model, Truck Series and Dwarf car racers alone, there's some big talent out there. And there are others. “When Chris and I got together last year to recognize one short track promoter each year and saw the positive reaction, it was only natural to add this new Driver of the Year Award to the mix. We're blessed with so many gifted racers in this state; to not recognize their successes would be an oversight.” The addition of a driver's ability to interact with members of the media reflects the growth and increased level of professionalism on the Texas racing scene in recent years. Since the 2019 season got started, and despite last year's global pandemic, the sport is enjoying a healthy resurgence. Thanks to increased Live coverage by RaceOnTexas and more mainstream media coverage in general, drivers now have the chance to do interviews far more often. Thus, their ability to articulate and connect with fans through those opportunities has become critical. Some excel at it, to their benefit. “I think there are several racers across the state of Texas now who are getting better at doing interviews,” David added. “They're getting more comfortable on camera, and most realize the value of those interviews to their sponsors. Rodney and I both feel it's time to look at those skills, as well.” RaceOnTexas is poised for continued growth itself in 2021 after a successful debut for its new SpeedPass program in 2020. More Live events, more broadcasts featuring multi-cam views and top-notch on-screen graphics are coming in the months ahead. It's a great time to be a race fan in Texas. For more information, go to www.raceontexas.com.

More than excited to see two shows for the STLMS & TDTS there this year! Dwarf car fans should be pleased, as well. Loads of hotly-contested weekly racing, several competitive & exciting touring series paying a visit or two. What a nice schedule...

For immediate release: Revved Up Sports Show PR Contact: Rodney Rodriguez Tel: 512.300.4445 Owen Pittman named 2020 Texas Short Track Promoter of the Year, Presented by Revved Up Sports Show & RaceOnTexas AUSTIN, Texas (Dec. 9, 2020) — Owners of Texas-based media entities the Revved Up Sports Show (RUSS) and RaceOnTexas have announced the first recipient of their newly-created Texas Short Track Promoter of the Year Award for 2020. The news was announced during Wednesday's special mid-week RUSS program. Owen Pittman, general manager of Texana Raceway Park (TRP) in Edna, Texas, is the recipient of this year's prestigious award. Pittman and his staff transformed a track struggling with low car counts and fan attendance into a thriving, popular facility where even B Mains were needed in weekly qualifying. “This means a lot to me, and comes as a huge surprise,” Pittman said when notified of the decision. “This state is full of great promoters. I worked hard at our place this year, just like all the other promoters did to keep racing alive. I think survival is key now. This is honestly very humbling to me. “We all have the same passion and want the same results, to keep the sport growing if at all possible. Even with the pandemic this year, we saw growth across the board. What helps is that tracks are more aligned than ever right now, working together for one goal. I'm very grateful to receive this award.” Pittman has an extensive background in the organizational and promotional side of the sport. Texana wasn't the first oval he's saved from extinction. His passion for racing has driven him for many years. “I ran the old Corpus Christi Speedway for two years in the early 2000s,” Pittman explained. “Then I jumped into racing promotion with both feet and ran South Texas Speedway for the next 10 years after that. I had a good time at CC Speedway, the asphalt track was really fun for me and I enjoyed it a lot.” As a man who travels statewide to work at races, Rodney Rodriguez knows chemistry when he sees it. “Owen and his staff did some amazing things down there in Edna this year,” the founder and co-host at RUSS said. “When you look at their car counts, steady crowds and a successful Karting program that gets kids active in racing, I feel those efforts meet our criteria and are exemplary of great promotion.” Members of the Selection Committee, each with many years of involvement in the racing industry, held their discussions during the month of November to make nominations, deliberate and cast their votes. While there were lively discussions on several good candidates, the final vote count was undisputed. “I thank the members of our committee for their hard work in this annual task,” RaceOnTexas owner Chris David said. “I know they put a lot of thought into it, and I feel they chose an excellent recipient. Owen has done a great job of rebuilding Texana Raceway in 2020 and deserves recognition for that.” To follow the Revved Up Sports Show, go to www.revvedupsportsshow.com. To become a subscriber at RaceOnTexas and start enjoying some great Live streaming action from tracks across Texas and even into Louisiana, please go to www.raceontexas.com.

For immediate release: CHR Public Relations Contact: Phil Whipple Tel: 207.689.6630 Chad Heath Racing wraps up successful first year on Dirt at West Texas Raceway Former iRacing enthusiast goes from online to Limited Mod Rookie-of-the-Year LAMESA, Texas (Oct. 20, 2020) — Whoever said the transition from virtual racing to a solid season in the ultra-competitive world of Limited Modifieds on dirt in West Texas is impossible never met Chad Heath. The former iRacer, Army combat veteran and lifelong race fan did just that in 2020. Heath, 40, a Maine native who grew up in North Carolina and served his country fighting in Iraq, went real-world racing this year at West Texas Raceway (WTR) in Lubbock. In eight starts, he earned three top-five finishes, highlighted by a pair of top-five runs. At WTR, the Limited Modifieds are loaded with talent. Heath's consistency in his first year won him Rookie-of-the-Year honors, and although he failed to win a feature, it capped an amazing season. “I think the biggest factor in my success this year was being patient,” Heath explained. “It may sound corny, but all the advice I got from veteran racers on iRacing when dirt tracks were first brought to virtual racing really helped. Listening to those guys taught me a lot when it was time to actually race. “They told me to drag the brake, to keep the rear end loaded up and not to let out of the gas all the way, things like that. I used all of those things on the racetrack. Being active in iRacing taught me to be patient. I'm kind of aggressive in some ways, but that experience taught me to take my time.” Heath's choice to compete at WTR in 2020 has only enhanced his love for dirt track racing. Owner Corky Matthews and promoter Jeremy Pipes go the extra mile to entertain fans, and always look after their racers. Heath says while he also runs at other tracks, he loves his home in Lubbock. “I had raced in Abilene a little at first,” he said. “But the very first time I went out there to WTR I fell in love with it because I felt like I could use the throttle more to control the car. I just love the place since it's wide and you have so much room to race. Plus it's a very well-run facility to enjoy.” Heath's enjoyment at the track in 2020 didn't always come from feature results. There's more to it than that for this first-time racer with a love for people. “One thing I did when we raced up in Amarillo and a couple of times in West Texas was spending some time in the grandstands interacting with race fans,” he said. “I handed out some hero cards, and some folks even had me sign some t-shirts. That's the best part of racing for me. “To think I may have helped them form a connection to our sport is pretty cool. I've given a fan a hat, and the reaction I got made us some great new friends. Those guys visit us in the pits.” Heath's strong rookie campaign was not without its challenges, Take, for example, when he got run into on July 25th on his way to a race, causing significant damage to his trailer and car. “I jumped out of my truck and was pretty upset,” Heath explained. “A bunch of racers from Amarillo came flying up to me and said to pull over next to them. They said they'd done this before. They used their ATV's with winches to pull that trailer back out like an accordion. We unloaded the car and realized the right rear was bent downward. It also damaged the body panels pretty badly. “I got them back up out of the way enough to race, so when I got to Amarillo I went out and started fifth in my qualifying heat. I drove it up to third, and figured we were doing something right. There were 34 cars there that night, including the guy pitted next to me with a brand new car. He didn't make the A Main, but I did. In the feature, I finished eighth and after all that, I felt like we won it.” Along with a natural talent behind the wheel, part of Heath's successful 2020 season on dirt is the car he drives. And it's quite ironic to hear the name of his chassis, given where he's from. “My car is a Wicked Chassis built by Donnie Shipp, who runs a lot on the TOMS series, ” Heath said. “I'm a pretty big guy and I need more room to get in and out of the car than some driver may need. This car has that, and being from New England, I felt the name Wicked Chassis was cool. As for the powerplant, Heath chose a Crate Motor over a hand-built performance engine. “I don't have a lot of money, I work for a living and so I chose to go with a GM Crate engine,” Heath said in a candid fashion. “I blew a lot of guys away, they were shocked I had a crate motor. I embrace the crate motor concept, because it allows somebody like myself to get into racing.” Heath is quick to credit the installation of the Jones Kit for helping his efforts in 2020. “I got my engine from Karl Kustoms for $4,300 with my carburetor tuned to the engine,” he explained. “And the Jones Kit is one of the best things I bought for the car, and I got a huge discount for running the decals. I sure do appreciate their support and they sure do make an excellent product.” Heath's love for all things motorsports related doesn't end with fulfilling his dream of racing in Lubbock. He also loves to promote the sport itself, and is taking steps this fall to generate exposure for his team, fellow racers and West Texas Raceway itself in 2021. “I spent some time last weekend at Cotton Bowl Speedway talking with Tony Fetters from RaceOnTexas. I want to help owner Chris David to establish a dialogue between WTR and his folks to bring Live Streaming to our part of the state. I just enjoy promoting our sport, and we all need that. “I realize that Live stream can go a long way towards expanding the fan base for me, my fellow racers and West Texas Raceway itself. I want to help grow our sport and felt that was one way to do it.” Heath's military experience gave him a great deal of satisfaction, just as promoting racing does. “When I first got discharged, I did a lot of interviews,” he said. “I was asked what my biggest accomplishment was while in the service. My answer was serving as mentor for several soldiers, then hearing from them later as to the influence I had on them. I just love seeing others succeed, as well.” Heath is a perfect example of the trend middle-aged race fans are making going back to their roots. Gone is the admiration and obsession with a high-speed, follow-the-leader parade on Sunday. “A lot of us have lost interest in superspeedway racing, and short tracks are gaining from that.”