Catchfence » Venturini Motorsports

Against All Odds; Ryan Reed, Race Car Driver with Type 1 Diabetes, Prepares for Historic Debut at Daytona with Venturini Motorsports

Press Release — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:58:17 +0000

Venturini Motorsports

Concord, NC (February 08, 2012) — Exactly one year to the date of being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D), ARCA newcomer, Ryan Reed is set to make his historic debut with Venturini Motorsports in the 2012 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season opener at Daytona International Speedway on February 18th, 2012.

The 18 year-old from Bakersfield, California will be behind the wheel of the No.15 JDRF– Venturini Motorsports race car for the ARCA Racing Series Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona. Ryan and his team are also excited to announce support from Advance Auto Parts for Ryan’s superspeedway debut.

“Racing at Daytona is a dream-come true,” said Reed. “Since I was a kid I dreamed of the day I would have the opportunity to compete on the historic track. And then to go to the test with Venturini Motorsports in December and be at the top of the charts on the first day was unreal!”

Reed was diagnosed with T1D exactly one year ago – February 2011.

His untimely diagnosis changed his life forever and threatened his promising racing career. After being told his racing career was over, Reed made a decision not to allow T1D to dictate his legacy behind the wheel.

Ryan Reed

Armed with the passion and determination to fulfill his dreams, Reed shifted his focus and poured all his energy into managing his health and educating himself on the disease.

Reed’s tenacity and ‘never quit’ attitude has allowed him the good fortune to return to the race car and use his racing platform and personal story to inspire others living with T1D to continue living life to its fullest.

Reed’s off-track goodwill has made him a National Celebrity Advocate of JDRF, the world’s largest funder of research toward curing, treating and preventing T1D and its complications.

Ryan's Mission (Ryan Reed)

“JDRF has an amazing group of people that are involved in the organization. We’ve been working with them locally, and on a national level more recently. I feel like part of the family whenever we do events together,” said Ryan. “I just feel so fortunate that I can inspire others and create such a positive atmosphere after being diagnosed with a life-long disease.”

Today, Reed is only one of three professional race car drivers in the world to compete at the highest levels of racing with T1D. Indy Racing League driver, Charlie Kimball was diagnosed with T1D in 2007. The two drivers not only share the same circumstances but also share the same doctor, Dr. Anne Peters, MD of USC Clinical Diabetes Program in California.

Reed’s partnership with JDRF will be prominently on display when his JDRF themed racecar is unveiled next week when the ARCA Racing Series returns to Daytona.

To commemorate this historic moment, Reed teamed up with NASCAR’s first officially licensed artist and design icon, Sam Bass to create the paint scheme for Reed’s JDRF car.

Although Bass has designed hundreds of paint schemes for many of today’s NASCAR superstars, the JDRF project with Ryan Reed has a very personal meaning to the motorsports artist.

Like Reed, Sam Bass is also living with T1D. He was diagnosed in 1992.

Bass used this opportunity and his heart to design a show piece and leave his personal imprint on this project to help create more awareness to JDRF and the millions of people affected by this life-long disease.

“I am thrilled to be working with such a talented, young, up and coming driver as Ryan Reed,” said Sam Bass. “His partnership with JDRF has a tremendously special meaning to me, as I also have type 1 diabetes, and have dealt with the disease all of my life. I can relate first hand to the goals and initiatives JDRF has set to help people living with diabetes, and to find a cure. JDRF does very impactful work, and I am extremely proud to assist them in their marketing efforts with the Venturini Motorsports Team and Ryan.”

While November is the official National Diabetes Awareness Month on a worldwide initiative, February marks a significant month for diabetes in Ryan’s life.

Ryan was diagnosed with T1D in February 2011 and 1-year later he will be running the JDRF painted racecar for the first time at Daytona International Speedway in honor of everyone that is affected by T1D.

Practice for the season-opening race starts on Thursday, February 16, while qualifying is Friday, February 17 at 2pm. The race, scheduled to be televised live by SPEED-TV, is Saturday, February 18 at 4:30pm ET.

About Venturini Motorsports

Venturini Motorsports (VMS), fielding cars in the ARCA Racing Series, is one of the premier NASCAR driver development programs in the country. The 2012 season marks the teams 30th Anniversary of competition in the ARCA Series. Multiple team championships and consistent on-track success, VMS has evolved into one of the most recognizable names in motorsports.

Since 2007, VMS has assisted in the career development of notable NASCAR drivers such as Joey Logano, Justin Allgaier, Steve Arpin, Brian Scott, Max Gresham, Miguel Paludo, Josh Richards, Mikey Kile and Scott Lagasse, Jr.

- Venturini Motorsports Press Release

NASCAR Driver and Duke Student, Paulie Harraka Teams with Venturini Motorsports for Daytona ARCA Race

Press Release — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:38:45 +0000

Paulie Harraka

CONCORD, N.C. (February 6, 2012) — Duke University honor student and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver, Paulie Harraka will join Venturini Motorsports for a single race effort in the 2012 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season opener at Daytona International Speedway on February 18th, 2012.

“I’m excited to be competing in the ARCA race at Daytona with Venturini Motorsports. Daytona international Speedway is certainly the hallowed grounds of motorsports, and I’ve looked at the high banks there in awe for years. To have the opportunity to compete for the first time on those high banks, and to be doing it with this team, is extremely exciting for me.” Paulie Harraka.

Harraka, a former NASCAR Drive for Diversity driver will be a part of Venturini’s 5-team effort at Daytona piloting the No.55 Venturini Motorsports Toyota.

In addition to competing in the ARCA series opener at Daytona, Harraka has teamed with veteran NASCAR crew chief Richie Wauters and will compete for the Sunoco Rookie of the Year title with newly formed Wauters Motorsports in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.

Paulie Harraka

As a senior at Duke University, Harraka is not your typical college student. This 22-year old from Wayne, New Jersey is an overachiever in every sense of the term.

During his collegiate career, Harraka has won countless NASCAR races while juggling a full load of academic studies; focusing on engineering, sports psychology, leadership and business. He’s also interned at Joe Gibbs Racing in their research and development division as well as interning in Corporate Marketing at NASCAR’s New York office.

Harraka is a past champion in in NASCAR’s Whelen All-American Series, and has posted (2) different NASCAR Rookie of the Year titles: NASCAR Whelen All American Series and NASCAR Camping World Series West (Now K&N Pro Series West). Most recently, Harraka posted three victories in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West.

Beyond his racing and academic focus; Harraka is a Celebrity Ambassador for Childhelp, a national nonprofit that works with abused, neglected, and at risk children. No wonder Harraka has been featured on everything from ESPN and Sports Illustrated to Fox News and The New York Times.

Practice for the season-opening race starts on Thursday, Feb. 16, while qualifying is Friday, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m. The race, scheduled to be televised live by SPEED-TV, is Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET.

Venturini Motorsports

About Venturini Motorsports

For more information please visit:

www.PaulieHarraka.net / www.VenturiniMotorpsorts.com / www.ArcaRacing.com

Twitter @PaulieHarraka

Facebook Paul Harraka

- Venturini Motorsports Press Release

Max Gresham To Realize Lifetime Dream At Daytona Speedweeks

Press Release — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:29:16 +0000

Max Gresham And His No. 9 Made In USA Brand Chevrolet Impala

KERNERSVILLE, NC (February 1, 2012) – Max Gresham was an interested observer last February when the season-opening Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) race rolled off at Daytona International Speedway.

Just over a year later, Gresham will be more involved at Daytona when he climbs behind the wheel of the No. 9 Made In USA Brand Chevrolet in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 ARCA classic on Saturday, February 18.

“It’s been a year since we were there last year, but I’ve waited a lifetime for this opportunity,” said Gresham, who will be making his first-ever start on the giant 2.5-mile Daytona oval. “Ever since I started driving racecars, I’ve always dreamed about racing at Daytona. To be down there and racing at Speedweeks in front of everybody is going to be really exciting. Daytona International Speedway is the biggest stage in all of motorsports and to finally be racing there is something I have dreamed about for a long time.”

Gresham’s inaugural Daytona appearance in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 will be his 13th career ARCA start. The 18-year-old Griffin, GA native left an immediate impression on the series in 2010 winning the pole at Salem (IN) Speedway in his first career ARCA start. In his third ARCA start later that season, Gresham took his family-owned stock car to victory lane winning the Tim Richmond Memorial at Mansfield (OH) Speedway.

Last year, Gresham wheeled a Venturini Motorsports entry to four top-10 finishes in just seven ARCA starts. Included in his 2011 ARCA highlights were pole positions at both Pocono (PA) Raceway and Kansas Speedway. His best finish was a second at Michigan International Speedway.

In all three cases, it was the first time Gresham had competed at those raceways.

Those positive, first-time out experiences in the ARCA Racing Series have Gresham confident he can post a top finish in his Daytona debut as well.

“I have a history of doing pretty well the first time I go to a racetrack,” stated Gresham. “I’m hoping that will be the case at Daytona. The biggest thing I may have to contend with will be tandem racing. If it’s going to be pack racing, then I think I will have some time to learn and adapt. But if it’s tandem-style racing, I’ll have to adapt right away because if you don’t you crash.”

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 ARCA Racing Series event will be the first of two events Gresham will compete in during Speedweeks at Daytona this year. Gresham will also pilot the No. 24 Made In USA Chevrolet in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series NextEra Energy Resources 250 on Friday, February 24.

Gresham will wheel a Joe Denette Motorsports prepared entry in both the ARCA and Truck Series Daytona events.

“I’m going to have two very strong vehicles thanks to Joe Denette Motorsports,” said Gresham. “They have given me every opportunity to run well at Daytona. As strong as our ARCA car is, I think our Truck will be even better. I’m really looking forward to getting to Daytona and racing the rest of the 2011 season with these guys.”

The Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 ARCA Racing Series event will roll off at 4:30 Eastern Time on Saturday, February 18. The race will be telecast live on SPEEDTV.

Meanwhile, SPEED will also telecast the NextEra Energy Resources 250 NCWTS race live on Friday, February 24. That event takes the green flag at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

For more information about Max Gresham, please access www.MaxGresham.com. You can also follow Gresham on
Twitter @MaxGresham and on Facebook at Max Gresham Fan Page.

For more information on Joe Denette Motorsports please visit: www.JoeDenetteMotorsports.com.

Companies interested in securing the Made In USA Brand Certification Mark for their products are encouraged to log on to http://www.madeinusabrand.com.

Race fans interested in pledging along with Max to purchase made in USA manufactured goods can log on to http://www.PledgeForUSA.com.

- Max Gresham Motorsports Press Release

Brennan Poole and Venturini Motorsports Are Ready for Daytona

Press Release — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:03:46 +0000

“The Bull” Looks to Shows His Horns at Daytona”

No. 25 Adcetera / Venturini Motorsports Chevrolet Impala

Concord, NC (February 01, 2012) — Brennan Poole, who catapulted himself onto the national racing spotlight last year by winning his ARCA Racing Series debut at Salem Speedway and winning the 2011 UARA-STARS National Championship, is now preparing for the next chapter in his racing career. Poole, hoping to chase down his next championship, will drive the team’s flagship No. 25 Adcetera / Venturini Motorsports Chevrolet in the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season-opening Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway. The 20 year-old driver will make his Daytona International Speedway debut with Venturini Motorsports (VMS), with Billy Venturini as the team’s crew chief.

“Brennan has been impressive every time he’s been in the seat for VMS,” Venturini said. “He tested well in December and has been preparing for this race the entire off-season. I think he’s got a great shot, and we expect him to shine at Daytona.”

In just four selected ARCA Series starts with Venturini Motorsports, the Woodlands, Texas, native has captured a series victory (Salem Speedway) and a pole award (Pocono Raceway) and has led laps in all but one of his series starts.

Brennan Poole

“We’ve had a lot of success at every step, but to race for a storied team like Venturini Motorsports, especially at Daytona, certainly is the highlight,” Poole said. “The Venturinis have high standards and very high expectations every time they go to Daytona. It’s my job not to let them down.”

Nicknamed “The Bull,” Poole was the 2002 Quarter Midget Grand National Champion, and he followed that up by winning 42 of 61 Pro National Legends races and the national race of champions feature in 2006. He also was the 2009 UARA-STARS Rookie of the Year and 2011 UARA-STARS Champion. He has won 10 times in the past two UARA-STARS seasons.

Poole’s car will be painted in a retro color scheme originally used by Billy Venturini during his 10-year driving career.

Practice for the season-opening race starts on Thursday, Feb. 16, while qualifying is Friday, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m. The race, scheduled to be televised live by SPEED-TV, is Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET.

About Adcetera

Adcetera is a strategic marketing & advertising firm. Since 1982, we’ve been developing creative solutions to our clients’ marketing, brand and communication challenges. Sometimes, the way is clear. Other times, we work to help them define what they’re up against. When our clients don’t know the “what,” we help them define it. When they’re not sure about the “how,” we help them do it. When they don’t know the “where,” we provide the map. And when they don’t know the “when,” we say, “Let’s get started.” www.Adcetera.com

Venturini Motorsports

About Venturini Motorsports

For more information please visit: www.BrennanPoole.com and/or www.VenturiniMotorsports.com

- Venturini Motorsports Press Release

2012 Season to Start at SpeedFest for Erik Jones

Press Release — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:58:19 +0000

Erik Jones (Photo Credit: Detroit Free Press)

BYRON, MI (January 23, 2012) – It’s only been a few weeks since his last race, but 2011 Florida Governor’s Cup 200 winner Erik Jones is ready to get back to the track. While announcements of ARCA events have been the headlines for the 15-year-old Michigan native this off-season, Jones will look to start his Super Late Model schedule in 2012 with a strong run in the signature season kick-off event, SpeedFest, at Watermelon Capitol Speedway (GA) January 28th and 29th.

“We have a lot of momentum from the 2011 season,” said Jones. “It shouldn’t be too hard to carry that over into the new year. When you have a great season like 2011 you just can’t wait to get back on the track, the off season seems like it lasts forever.”

Jones was the 2011 Governor’s Cup 200 winner at New Smyrna Speedway (FL) after locking up the JEGS All Stars Tour title a few weeks prior to that. He also had a solid performance going in the Allen Turner Snowflake 100 at Five Flags Speedway (FL) in December before being swept up in a wreck.

2012 will kick off at a new track, as Jones will set his eyes on the 3/8-mile Watermelon Capital Speedway in Cordele, Georgia for the first time at SpeedFest.

“It looks like a fun track from the pictures and should put on a good show for the fans with our Paragon Corvette Reproductions Chevy,” said Jones. “I am really excited to go there. I always like to go to a new racetrack and hopefully race with some new people.”

Those new people will include drivers like NASCAR stars Kyle Busch, Johnny Sauter, Erik Darnell and David Ragan, as well as short track standouts such as Chase Elliott, Bubba Pollard and several other big Super Late Model names.

Three-time CRA Super Series Champion Scott Hantz has stepped in to be the head wrench and driver coach for the young driver.

“Scott Hantz will be working in collaboration with Venturini Motorsports, my ARCA team. I am really looking forward to being able to work with so much experience this year and I’m looking to pick up the 2012 season right where we left off.”

Jones will be focusing his efforts on the ARCA/CRA Super Series Super Late Model 200-lap portion of SpeedFest weekend and will not be competing in the JEGS Tour event.

“It is different not being able to hop into the (JEGS Tour) Pro Late Model at SpeedFest. It bums me out a little bit as I really enjoy running the Pro class. We have had great success with the Super Late Model though and I really enjoyed the faster pace of racing that I got to experience twice last year.

Jones and his Paragon Corvette Reproductions #4 team will start the action on Friday January 27th with practice. Qualifying will take place on Saturday, January 28th with the feature event being on Sunday, January 29th.

For more on Erik Jones, please visit his website at www.ErikJonesRacing.com.

- 51 Sports Press Release

Venturini Motorsports Finishes Daytona Test with Top Four Spots; 79 Drivers Take Laps Over Three Days

Press Release — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 04:25:55 +0000

ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards

Buster Graham and Milka Duno each led sessions over the final day of ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards open testing at Daytona International Speedway, but Venturini Motorsports ended the weekend with the top four positions on the overall time chart.

Graham’s morning lap of 48.229 seconds (186.61 mph) in the No. 88 Ford gave him the lead in the weekend’s fifth testing session, and in turn the only top 10 time outside of Saturday afternoon’s drafting session. Duno, Jared Marks, Will Kimmel, and Alex Bowman comprised the remainder of the morning top five.

Only 30 cars participated in the last afternoon session, which Duno led with a best lap of 48.34 seconds (186.161 mph). She was followed by Joey Coulter, Brandon McReynolds, Bowman, and Josh Richards. Full speed charts for both Sunday sessions are available at ARCARacing.com.

Overall, Venturini Motorsports ended the weekend with the top positions among 79 drivers who took laps over 21 hours. Bowman’s Saturday afternoon lap of 47.787 seconds (188.336 mph) in the No. 25 Chevrolet will stand as the test’s top effort, just ahead of teammates John Stancill, Brennan Poole, and Ryan Reed. Marks, driving a Tony Marks Racing Dodge, ended the weekend fifth.

Duno’s Saturday afternoon lap in the Sheltra Motorsports Ford ended the test sixth overall, just ahead of Venturini’s Nelson Canache, DC Racing’s Drew Charlson, Graham, and Coulter Motorsports’ Matt Lofton.

The overall weekend results are listed below.

CAR # DRIVER MFG TIME SPEED

1 25a Alex Bowman Chevy 47.787 188.336
2 55 John Stancill Toyota 47.811 188.241
3 25 Brennan Poole Chevy 47.812 188.237
4 15 Ryan Reed Toyota 47.821 188.202
5 12 Jared Marks Dodge 47.832 188.159
6 63 Milka Duno Ford 48.166 186.854
7 35 Nelson Canache Chevy 48.212 186.676
8 51 Drew Charlson Chevy 48.221 186.641
9 88 Buster Graham Ford 48.229 186.610
10 16 Matt Lofton Chevy 48.234 186.590
11 94 Steve Blackburn Chevy 48.245 186.548
12 69a Fain Skinner Ford 48.251 186.525
13 58 Chad Hackenbracht Chevy 48.340 186.181
14 61 Joey Coulter Chevy 48.363 186.093
15 4 Brandon McReynolds Chevy 48.364 186.089
16 32 Chris Windom Toyota 48.380 186.027
17 66 Josh Richards Toyota 48.438 185.805
18 68 Will Kimmel Ford 48.488 185.613
19 08 Ross Chastain Ford 48.569 185.303
20 12 Maryeve Dufault Dodge 48.573 185.288
21 75 Ginny Quinones Toyota 48.674 184.904
22 44 Frank Kimmel Toyota 48.773 184.528
23 6 Cale Gale Chevy 48.803 184.415
24 14 John Ferrier Chevy 48.839 184.279
25 05 Derrike Cope Chevy 48.846 184.253
26 00 Ed Kennedy Chevy 48.865 184.181
27 66 Mark Thompson Toyota 48.931 183.932
28 1 Alli Owens Ford 48.953 183.850
29 90 Zachary Ralston Ford 48.971 183.782
30 29c Bobby Pelland Dodge 49.076 183.389
31 29a Sam Edwards Dodge 49.092 183.329
32 5a Bobby Gerhart Chevy 49.169 183.042
33 82a Sean Corr Ford 49.190 182.964
34 61 T.J. Duke Chevy 49.193 182.953
35 11b Rick Clifton Chevy 49.340 182.408
36 75a Benny Chastain Toyota 49.392 182.216
37 17 Chris Buescher Ford 49.417 182.124
38 29b Sloan Henderson Dodge 49.461 181.962
39 5b Damon Lusk Chevy 49.469 181.932
40 14a Josh Williams Ford 49.609 181.419
41 05 Spencer Gallagher Chevy 49.625 181.360
42 1a Jeremy Petty Chevy 49.725 180.995
43 40a Michelle Therault Dodge 49.745 180.923
44 10a Dennis Strickland Ford 49.793 180.748
45 13 George Cushman Dodge 49.985 180.054
46 69 Chris Brown Ford 50.133 179.522
47 18 Michael Affarano Chevy 50.207 179.258
48 10b Ryan Glenski Chevy 50.223 179.201
49 90a Grant Enfinger Ford 50.258 179.076
50 40t Nick Tucker Dodge 50.390 178.607
51 11 Paul Harraka Chevy 50.403 178.561
52 11c Trevor Edwards Chevy 50.517 178.158
53 10 Derrick Griffin Ford 50.539 178.080
54 1b Thomas Praytor Ford 50.560 178.006
55 11a Ed Pompa Chevy 50.579 177.939
56 29 Bob Bryant Dodge 50.606 177.845
57 11e Sunny Hobbs Chevy 50.617 177.806
58 29d Andy Jones Dodge 50.626 177.774
59 18f Chris Coker Ford 50.640 177.725
60 04c Danny Esposito Dodge 50.651 177.687
61 04 Scott Edwards Dodge 50.695 177.532
62 1c Alexsander Gregory Ford 50.715 177.462
63 40b Trent Mayo Dodge 50.926 176.727
64 04a Juan Carlos Blum Dodge 51.029 176.370
65 40d Larry Barford Dodge 51.054 176.284
66 11d Bill Coffey Ford 51.162 175.912
67 40d Josh Watkins Dodge 51.162 175.912
68 06 Ricky Byers Chevy 51.173 175.874
69 11h James Hylton Ford 51.243 175.634
70 10f Brad Lloyd Chevy 51.257 175.586
71 10b Daryl Eustice Ford 51.277 175.517
72 18c Tyler Speer Chevy 51.348 175.275
73 89 Chris Lafferty Chevy 51.563 174.544
74 40c Ryan Rust Dodge 51.605 174.402
75 7 Brent Cross Chevy 51.792 173.772
76 40 Michael Bockler Dodge 51.795 173.762
77 40b Roger Carter Dodge 51.827 173.655
78 89a Korbin Forrister Chevy 52.314 172.038
79 74 Jimmy Nowell Chevy 60.220 149.452

The ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards will return to central Florida in less than two months, as the February 18 Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway will open ARCA’s 60th Anniversary Season. The 80-lap, 200-mile race is scheduled as the first of 20 races in 2012 and will air live on SPEED, with additional coverage available at ARCARacing.com.

The complete 2012 event schedule is available at ARCARacing.com.

The ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards has crowned an ARCA national champion each year since its inaugural season in 1953, and has toured over 200 race tracks in 28 states since its inception. The series has tested the abilities of drivers and race teams over the most diverse schedule of stock car racing events in the world, visiting tracks ranging from 0.4 mile to 2.66 miles in length, on both paved and dirt surfaces as well as a left- and right-turn road course in its most recent season. This year, the series will visit Alabama’s Mobile International Speedway and Minnesota’s Elko Speedway for the first time; ARCA’s first visit to Minnesota will give ARCA a race in a 29th state.

Founded by John Marcum in 1953 in Toledo, Ohio, the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) is recognized among the leading sanctioning bodies in the country. Closing in on completing its sixth decade after hundreds of thousands of miles of racing, ARCA administers over 100 race events each season in two professional touring series and local weekly events.

- Automobile Racing Club of America Press Release

Ryan Reed, Venturini Motorsports Control First Day of ARCA Racing Series Open Testing at Daytona

Press Release — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 02:28:10 +0000

ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards Thumbnail

(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.) - Ten months after its No. 15 car qualified on the front row for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway, Venturini Motorsports rose to the top of the speed charts again at the “World Center of Racing.”

Ryan Reed drove the No. 15 Toyota to a best lap of 48.857 seconds (184.211 mph) in the second session of ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards open testing at the 2.5-mile oval, just edging teammates Brennan Poole, John Stancill, and Mark Thompson for the day’s best times. T.J. Duke, driving for Coulter Motorsports, finished the day fifth.

Poole led the three-hour morning period with a best lap of 48.915 seconds, and he and Reed were the only drivers to top that mark in the four-hour afternoon session.

Reed has never competed in the ARCA Racing Series, but is a track champion and super late model Rookie of the Year and race winner at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale in California. Just months past his 18th birthday, Reed enters ARCA with three NASCAR K&N Pro Series starts to his credit. In February, as he prepared to move to North Carolina from Bakersfield, Calif., Reed was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

Rick Clifton, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Rookie of the Year Joey Coulter, Chris Windom, Nelson Canache, and Sloan Henderson filled out the top 10 for the first day. Seven-time and defending Daytona winner Bobby Gerhart ended the day 13th, and 2011 Daytona runner-up and ARCA Rookie of the Year Chris Buescher finished 27th.

Open testing for teams and drivers will continue Saturday and Sunday at Daytona International Speedway.

The full list of every driver’s best speed is available below.

CAR # DRIVER TIME SPEED

1 15 Ryan Reed 48.857 184.211
2 25 Brennan Poole 48.862 184.192
3 55 John Stancill 48.921 183.970
4 66 Mark Thompson 48.931 183.932
5 61 T.J. Duke 49.193 182.953
6 11b Rick Clifton 49.340 182.408
7 61 Joey Coulter 49.350 182.371
8 32 Chris Windom 49.360 182.334
9 35 Nelson Canache 49.439 182.043
10 29b Sloan Henderson 49.461 181.962
11 5b Damon Lusk 49.469 181.932
12 82a Sean Corr 49.475 181.910
13 5a Bobby Gerhart 49.502 181.811
14 58 Chad Hackenbracht 49.552 181.627
15 4 Brandon McReynolds 49.553 181.624
16 99 Buster Graham 49.637 181.316
17 14 John Ferrier 49.666 181.210
18 94 Steve Blackburn 49.717 181.025
19 16 Matt Lofton 49.725 180.995
20 00 Ed Kennedy 49.761 180.865
21 12 Jared Marks 49.772 180.825
22 63 Milka Duno 49.787 180.770
23 1 Alli Owens 49.813 180.676
24 69a Fain Skinner 49.862 180.498
25 68 Will Kimmel 50.016 179.942
26 6 Cale Gale 50.034 179.878
27 17a Chris Buescher 50.035 179.874
28 90 Zachary Ralston 50.114 179.591
29 08 Ross Chastain 50.131 179.530
30 69 Chris Brown 50.133 179.522
31 18 Michael Affarano 50.207 179.258
32 10b Ryan Glenski 50.223 179.201
33 90a Grant Enfinger 50.258 179.076
34 75 Ginny Quinones 50.278 179.005
35 11 Paul Harraka 50.403 178.561
36 75a Benny Chastain 50.461 178.356
37 11a Ed Pompa 50.579 177.939
38 11c Trevor Edwards 50.681 177.581
39 04 Scott Edwards 50.695 177.532
40 51 Drew Charlson 50.744 177.361
41 05 Spencer Gallagher 50.903 176.807
42 13 George Cushman 50.928 176.720
43 04a Juan Carlos Blum 51.029 176.370
44 04c Danny Esposito 51.089 176.163
45 11d Bill Coffey 51.162 175.912
46 06 Ricky Byers 51.173 175.874
47 10b Daryl Eustice 51.277 175.517
48 04b Nick Tucker 51.405 175.080
49 40d Larry Barford 51.511 174.720
50 04d Josh Watkins 51.674 174.169
51 40b Roger Carter 51.827 173.655
52 40 Michael Bockler 51.990 173.110
53 05a Derrike Cope 52.067 172.854
54 7 Brent Cross 52.376 171.834

2012 will be the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards’ 60th Anniversary Season, featuring 20 races at 18 tracks. The season begins with the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, February 18. The event will air live on SPEED.

The complete 2012 event schedule is available at ARCARacing.com.

- Automobile Racing Club of America Press Release

Alli Owens Returns to Racing; Will Participate in ARCA Test at Daytona

Press Release — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:26:35 +0000

Alli Owens

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (December 12, 2011) – Alli Owens is back. The new mother will return behind the wheel of Andy Belmont’s No. 1 BABY JOCK-sponsored car for ARCA Series testing at Daytona International Speedway December 16-18. The session will mark Owens’ first time on a race track since February 2011.

Owens decided to take the 2011 season off to get married and start a family. In October she gave birth to a healthy baby girl named Braelynn and is anxious to get back in the seat of a competitive race car for 2012.

“I can’t put into words how great it feels to know that I’ll be testing at Daytona,” Owens said. “I’ve been so anxious to return to the track. Now that I’m settled in with being a wife and mother, it’s time for me to go racing again. I’m so excited to be a mom and get back in the driver’s seat.

“While I was away, I did everything I possibly could to prepare for my return. I’ve been exercising and working on my fitness so that I’ll be at the top of my game. I’ve been calling on companies and organizations to secure a sponsorship. Hopefully it will all come together.”

Owens’ plans beyond Daytona are not complete. She is still seeking sponsorship support in hopes of running the 2012 season in one of racing’s top national touring series. Owens anticipates that motherhood will be appealing to potential sponsors and that it will open new doors to the sport.

“I know there are a lot of companies out there that have wanted to get involved in racing, but didn’t have the right fit for a driver. Now they have the right outlet,” Owens said. “There are so many companies that are relevant to women, especially mothers, that would be perfect for the sport. This is a great opportunity for them to share their brand with a whole new audience.”

One corporation, M4M Ventures has aligned with Owens for Daytona with their brand BABY JOCK. BABY JOCK is a brand new company that will soon debut a line of products. Product lines will include everything from diapers, formula, baby food, and gear. BABY JOCK will be the all-encompassing branding statement of healthy active babies and kids. BABY JOCK is starting the movement to end childhood obesity. This is the launching pad for the BABY JOCK brand as they seek corporate partnership. Team BABY JOCK will bring families back to the grandstands of NASCAR.

“As a new mother, I’m so proud to carry the BABY JOCK sponsorship at Daytona,” Owens said. “Obviously I want my daughter to grow up to be active and healthy, so I’m thrilled to align with a company that has similar ideals.”

Parent company M4M Ventures Corp. is launching another company, Going Fit, with the sponsorship of Owens and the race team. Going Fit provides the average consumer with motivational products and services; putting the power of change in their hands with product lines that promote a healthy and active way of life.

Owens has three partial seasons of ARCA competition under her belt, having driven for Mario Gosselin in 2008, D’Hondt Motorsports in 2009, and Venturini Motorsports in 2010. In 2009 Owens captured the outside pole at Daytona International Speedway for the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200.

For more information visit:

www.alliowens.com

www.BabyJock.com

www.GoingFit.com

- Breaking Limits Press Release

Mikey Kile Joins Andy Belmont Racing; Returns To ARCA Racing Series For 2012

Press Release — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 03:46:14 +0000

Andy Belmont Racing (ABR)

Charlotte, NC (December 10, 2011) – Mikey Kile will bring his racing talents to the No.14 Andy Belmont Racing Ford for the 2012 ARCA racing season beginning with the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 on February 18, 2012 at the Daytona International Speedway.

Kile, a Westlake, La.-native, began his career racing go-karts at local racetracks throughout his home state of Louisiana. He progressed through the Modifieds and late-models ranks, capturing numerous wins and awards along the way.

He made his NASCAR debut in 2009, driving a partial schedule in the Camping World Series for Brad Keselowski Racing. In six starts he accumulated three top-15 finishes.

Mikey Kile

In 2010, Mikey ran the full ARCA Racing Series schedule, capturing his first series victory at Michigan International Speedway along with two pole awards, seven top-five and 15 top-10 finishes and finishing 5th in Series points.

“I had a good year in 2010, but I believe that we have the pieces in place to compete for the 2012 ARCA championship”, stated Kile. “Andy has done a great job in putting together a quality team and I am really looking forward to the season opener in Daytona”.

Andy Belmont Racing is coming off a strong year in 2011 winning on the dirt at Springfield, finishing fifth in ARCA points as well as capturing the prestigious Bill France 4 Crown Award. The Langhorne PA native believes that Mikey Kile may be the last piece to the championship puzzle.

“This is definitely an exciting time for ABR”, added Andy Belmont. “I have watched Mikey progress each season as a driver and am confident that we will be in the hunt all year. I am also proud that he will be driving our No.14 Ford this season. The tradition of that number goes back to my days as a Modified driver in Pennsylvania”.

- Andy Belmont Racing Press Release

Ryan Reed Set To Run With Venturini Motorsports In 2012

Press Release — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 03:41:50 +0000

Venturini Motorsports Thumbnail

MOORESVILLE, NC (12-10-11) Ryan Reed will be making the next step in his racing career as he joins Venturini Motorsports for the 2012 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards season. Ryan will compete in selective 2012 events under the Venturini banner in preparation for a full season effort. Ryan Reed, at the age of 18, will make his ARCA Racing Series debut at Daytona Int’l Speedway on February 18th, 2012.

Ryan Reed, originally from Bakersfield, CA moved across the country by himself at the age of 17 to Mooresville, NC in order to surround himself with the racing community.

In February 2011, Ryan was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes as he was preparing his move to North Carolina but he didn’t let that slow him down. The aspiring young NASCAR driver completed his move to North Carolina to pursue his driving career professionally.

Ryan Reed

Since February, Ryan has had to change almost everything about his daily routine: diet, exercise, blood glucose readings, on track data, and reporting all of this information weekly to his medical / nutritional team in California.

Focusing on his commitment and determination, Ryan has set records and compiled an impressive list of racing accomplishments. As an outspoken diabetic who puts his passion for racing into “Ryan’s Mission,” helps build awareness and support for people with diabetes around the world.

Since the age of 4, Ryan has moved up through the racing structure with high levels of success and 5 racing Championships in his career. Ryan has continued to show his ability and talent on and off the track.

In 2009, Ryan became the Legends Division Track Champion at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale (Irwindale, CA). Ryan backed up his Championship the following year at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale by becoming the 2010 Rookie-of-the-Year in the Super Late Model Division. He took home one win in the 2010 season becoming the youngest winner at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale in the Super Late Model Divison.

In 2011 season, Reed raced in many different series, racing surfaces, tracks, and cars, including the Pro Allstars Series, NASCAR Whelen All American and the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. The diversity of racing in the 2011 will better prepare Ryan for the variety of tracks that the ARCA Racing Series offers; including superspeedways, intermediate tracks, short tracks, and a road course.

Ryan Reed looks to achieve high levels of success with the Venturini Motorsports development platform to showcase his talent and put him in position to achieve his professional goals.

Venturini Motorsports, fielding cars in the ARCA Racing Series, is one of the premier NASCAR Driver Development Programs in the country. Since 2007, Venturini Motorsports has assisted in the career development of notable NASCAR drivers Joey Logano, Justin Allgaier, Scott Lagasse Jr., Brian Scott, John Wes Townley, Marc Davis, Steve Arpin and Mikey Kile.

As an up and coming driver, Ryan Reed looks to add to the storied history of successful drivers and team of Venturini Motorsports.

For more information on Ryan Reed visit www.RyanReedRacing.com

For more information on Venturini Motorsports visit www.VenturiniMotorsports.com

- Venturini Motorsports Press Release

ARCA Announces 10-Race SPEED Television Schedule for 2012 to Highlight Championship Awards Banquet Press Conference

Press Release — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 03:32:02 +0000

ARCA's 60th Anniversary Season Logo

(COVINGTON, Ky.) - Just hours before tonight’s 59th annual ARCA Racing Series Championship Awards Banquet at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center, ARCA held its annual end-of-season press conference. The series released its 2012 television schedule, among other announcements.

Officials from ARCA and SPEED jointly announced the 2012 SPEED television schedule for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards, comprised of 10 events to be televised live or same-day delayed on the popular network. SPEED in-race analyst Phil Parsons, host for this evening’s banquet, was on hand for the announcement.

SPEED will kick off its live flag-to-flag ARCA coverage at Daytona International Speedway with the 49th running of the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at 4 p.m. Eastern on Saturday, February 18.

In addition to Daytona, other events scheduled for live and/or same-day coverage in 2012 include Talladega Superspeedway on May 4, Toledo Speedway on May 20, events at Pocono Raceway on June 9 and August 4, Michigan International Speedway on June 15, Iowa Speedway on July 13, Chicagoland Speedway on July 21, and the season finale at Kansas Speedway on October 19. The late July race at Lucas Oil Raceway will also be televised; series and track officials have not yet determined the race’s exact date.

ARCA’s relationship with SPEED dates back to April 20, 1997, when the network (then Speedvision) covered the ARCA race at Salem (Ind.) Speedway. Since then, SPEED has aired a total of 188 ARCA races, making the 2012 opener at Daytona the 189th.

Before the SPEED announcement, Drager opened the afternoon by providing a short “state of ARCA” address, recognizing series presenting sponsor Menards, and unveiling the logo for ARCA’s 60th Anniversary Season celebration. Drager then introduced Rick Crawford of Mobile International Speedway, which will host the ARCA Racing Series for the first time on March 10. Crawford announced that infield camping for ARCA’s first visit to Mobile has already sold out.

Also speaking was Bob Sargent of Track Enterprises; Sargent’s company will promote the June 2 race at Elko Speedway.

The press conference also served as a weekend welcome to series champion Ty Dillon, who spoke briefly after Drager.

Key series marketing partners and Menards vendor program participants Ansell, Herr’s, and Messina Wildlife Management were recognized. Several teams, including ThorSport Racing, Team BCR Racing, Andy Belmont Racing, and Venturini Motorsports, took the podium to announce new drivers and sponsors for 2012.

The ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards featured 19 events at 16 tracks on its 2011 schedule. The series has crowned an ARCA national champion each year since its inaugural season in 1953, and has toured over 200 race tracks in 28 states since its inception. In 2011, the series has tested the abilities of drivers and race teams over the most diverse schedule of stock car racing events in the world, visiting tracks ranging from 0.4 mile to 2.66 miles in length, on both paved and dirt surfaces as well as a left- and right-turn road course.

The 2012 ARCA Racing Series schedule is currently available at ARCARacing.com.

- Automobile Racing Club of America Press Release

ARCA Releases Four Summer Short Track Dates for 2012 Season

Press Release — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:44:03 +0000

ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards Thumbnail

(TOLEDO, Ohio) – Thrilling short track action will dot the summer schedule for the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards in 2012, the series’ 60th year of competition.

Adding to 11 races previously announced for next year’s schedule, ARCA officials released four more event dates as the unveiling of 2012′s entire race slate approaches.

The series will return to Winchester Speedway, the “World’s Fastest Half-Mile,” on Sunday, June 24. The race will be the 22nd for ARCA at the track 75 miles northeast of Indianapolis; the first ARCA race at Winchester took place in 1957, just the fifth season of ARCA competition. Dakoda Armstrong lifted Cunningham Motorsports to victory at Winchester in June.

“Winchester is exactly the type of Midwestern facility where the ARCA brand is well-known and has the chance to be successful,” said ARCA president Ron Drager. “Winchester is big enough and fast enough to play to the very nature of our cars.”

ARCA will make its seventh visit to the 0.875-mile Iowa Speedway on Friday, July 13 – one day before a NASCAR Camping World Truck Series at the track. Ty Dillon and Richard Childress Racing earned a dominating win at Iowa in July on his way to the 2011 series championship.

“Racing at Iowa Speedway is important from a market and venue perspective, as we reach a number of fans from several major areas there,” Drager said. “Being as recently built as it is, Iowa Speedway is one of those tracks that has the luxury of incorporating so many amenities – sightlines and facilities among them – to be fan-friendly and competitor-friendly. Iowa Speedway fans have strongly supported ARCA.”

The 25th appearance for the ARCA Racing Series at Berlin Raceway will occur on Saturday, August 11. The 0.4375-mile oval near Grand Rapids, Mich. hosted ARCA for the first time in 1958, and Matt Merrell won this July to take his first victory with Win-Tron Racing.

“Berlin Raceway is unlike any of the short tracks we go to in terms of its unique layout and pit road,” said Drager. “It’s been a staple of the tour for a number of years, and it seems that everyone from local guys like 2002 winner Fred Campbell to multi-time champions like three-time winner Frank Kimmel has a chance to be successful.”

Madison International Speedway will host ARCA for the second consecutive year and the fifth time since 1970 on Sunday, August 26. Alex Bowman drove Venturini Motorsports to the winner’s circle on the half-mile this season. The race is the year’s only event in Wisconsin, home to series presenting sponsor Menards. After taking place as a one-day Friday event in 2011, on-track activities will spread over two days – a Saturday and Sunday combination.

“The state of Wisconsin is renowned for the quality of its racing – teams and facilities – so it’s an important state from that perspective,” said Drager. “In addition, Wisconsin race fans are well-educated about the sport, and Terry Kunes and his staff at Madison provide a great venue at which our series can perform and compete.

“We consider every one of these race tracks important challenges to our racers, and there is a true advantage to racing within the Menards footprint. As Menards continues as our highest-profile marketing partner, racing in these Midwestern and Central states takes on added significance.”

More detailed schedule information for the season will be available shortly. The following race dates for the 2012 ARCA Racing Series schedule have been announced:

February 18 – Daytona International Speedway

March 10 – Mobile International Speedway

May 4 – Talladega Superspeedway

June 9 – Pocono Raceway

June 15 – Michigan International Speedway

June 24 – Winchester Speedway

July 1 – New Jersey Motorsports Park

July 13 – Iowa Speedway

July 21 – Chicagoland Speedway

August 4 – Pocono Raceway

August 11 – Berlin Raceway

August 19 – Illinois State Fairgrounds

August 26 – Madison International Speedway

September 3 – DuQuoin State Fairgrounds

October 19 – Kansas Speedway

The ARCA Racing Series will wrap up the 2011 season with the Championship Awards Banquet at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, Ky., near Cincinnati, on Saturday, December 10.

- Automobile Racing Club of America Press Release

Max Gresham To Close Out “Incredible” 2011 Season In NASCAR Truck Race At Homestead

Press Release — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 15:35:52 +0000

No. 66 MattBRaps.com / ”BurnOut” Chevrolet Silverado

GRIFFIN, GA (NOVEMBER 15, 2011) – With a full NASCAR K&N Pro Series East schedule and a select-event slate of ARCA races, Max Gresham knew that the 2011 racing season would be one of busiest of his young driving career.

What Gresham didn’t know was just how successful the year would be.

“This season has gone by really fast because I’ve had so much going on,” said Gresham, who will wheel the No. 66
MattyBRaps/”BurnOut” Chevrolet in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Ford 200 at Homestead-Miami Speedway this Friday. “The NASCAR K&N championship with Joe Gibbs Racing and the ARCA poles and great runs with Venturini Motorsports were pretty incredible. Now all of a sudden, I’m running the final race of the year in the Truck Series at Homestead and we’re doing things like making music videos with MattyB. If you would have told me I would be doing this kind of stuff at the beginning of the year, I would have never believed you.“

Gresham isn’t the only one who has marveled at his 2011 racing season. The 18-year-old Griffin, GA driver’s efforts in the NASCAR K&N and ARCA divisions earned him a seat for three late season NASCAR Truck Series events with Turn One Racing. Gresham made his truck division debut at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in October and followed it up with a second performance at Martinsville Speedway three weeks ago. Gresham finished 25th in both events, efforts that proved to be big learning experiences for the young driver.

“My first two truck races have been a great leaning experiences, but they have also been pretty humbling,” said Gresham, who posted a fifth-place finishing average in 12 NASCAR K&N Pro Series events en route to that division’s championship this season. “They say if you think you have things all figured out, then try to do something else. It’s really been a challenge to go from winning a championship in the NASCAR K&N Series to trying to figure things out the Truck Series. It’s been a huge learning curve for me, a real change from what I have been used to. I’m just thankful that I have had this opportunity and I’m sure it will serve me well as my driving career moves forward.”

Max Gresham

Gresham will be looking to end the season on a high note with a solid finish when he takes the green flag in the Ford 200 this Friday at Homestead. The event will be Gresham’s first-ever appearance on the 1.5-mile South Florida oval

“From what I understand about Homestead, it’s very fast and you chase the racetrack all day long,” said Gresham. “You’re continually looking for the spot where the truck works the best on the track. It’s going to be another new experience and I’m ready to jump into it.”

Gresham and his No. 66 MattyBRaps/”BurnOut” Chevrolet Silverado will roll off in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Ford 200 at Homestead-Miami Speedway on Friday, November 18 at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. The race will be telecast live on SPEED.

Meanwhile, the Max Gresham/MattyB “BurnOut” music video will make its worldwide premiere on YouTube on Thursday, November 17.

To view “BurnOut” – and MattyB’s other music videos – please visit www.MattyBRaps.com.

For more information about Turn One Racing, please access www.Turn1Racing.com.

You can follow Max Gresham on his web site – www.MaxGresham.com – on Facebook at Max Gresham Fan Page – and on Twitter@MaxGresham.

- Max Gresham Motorsports Press Release

A Championship Stays with you Forever – Brennan Poole Captures 2011 UARA-STARS Championship

Press Release — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:19:58 +0000

Brennan Poole And His Team Celebrate Their United Auto Racing Association (UARA) Series Championship

HUNTERSVILLE, NC (10-06-11) Brennan Poole stood amongst the UARA-STARS Championship banner at Rockingham Speedway with his crew around him in celebration on Saturday, November 5th. Poole claimed the 2011 United Auto Racing Association (UARA) Series Championship points title after his third full season in the series.

Despite not being able to complete the final race in the UARA circuit this season at Rockingham Speedway due to a blown motor early in the race, Poole and his team celebrated the successful year and championship with pride.

“It’s a shame we didn’t get to run all 75 laps today,” said Poole. “But I just want to thank my team this year. We started this team as our own deal this year and it is my crew chief David King’s first UARA Championship too. I also want to thank my family for supporting me all year. We had an awesome year and awesome season.”

Over the 2009, 2010, and 2011 seasons, Brennan has been re-writing the UARA-STARS record book with victory after victory. Poole is the second most winningest driver in the series, collecting ten career UARA victories including four in 2011 and six in 2010 (a UARA Series season record).

Brennan made his first start with the UARA-STARS on March 21, 2009 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Poole showed his talent in the series through the 2009 season and brought home the prestigious Rookie-of-the-Year title.

Poole followed up his rookie year with an impressive 2010 season. He put his name in the UARA-STARS record books as the only driver to win 6 races in a single season. But Poole fell 28 points shy of the 2010 UARA Championship ending up second in the points.

Brennan Poole

His success on and off the track made him a fan favorite, which is evident, as he’s earned back-to-back UARA Most Popular Driver Awards in 2009 and 2010.

And now in 2011, he rewrote the UARA record books once again as he captured the Championship Title with the largest points margin in history ahead of George Meidecke, his teammate in the ARCA Racing Series with Venturini Motorsports.

From the initial start of the 2011 season, Brennan has showed total domination in the series. He won the season debut at Hickory Motor Speedway, starting the points lead off strong and has remained the points leader the entire season. Poole won 4 UARA races this season including Hickory Motor Speedway, Kingsport Speedway, Rockingham Speedway, and Lonesome Pine Raceway.

“Running in UARA has really prepped me and given me a lot of experience,” said Poole. “This championship is very special. A Championship is something that stays with you forever.”

Brennan has steadily become one of the most successful and recognized drivers in the UARA Series. And now with wins, titles, and championships in the UARA Series under his belt, Brennan will look towards advancing his career to the next level of racing.

- For more information on Brennan Poole visit www.BrennanPoole.com

- Brennan Poole Racing Press Release

Max Gresham To Make Jump To NASCAR Camping World Truck Series At Las Vegas Motor Speedway This Weekend

Press Release — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 19:41:29 +0000

Turn-One-Racing-Logo Thumbnail

CONCORD, NC (October 11, 2011) – Max Gresham will continue his rise up the NASCAR ladder when he makes his NASCAR Camping World Truck Series debut this Saturday in the Smith’s 350 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

“I’m really excited to make my first start in the Truck Series this weekend,” said Gresham. “It will be great to do with Turn One Racing. What more could I ask for? I’ll have a great veteran driver in Stacy Compton and veteran crew chief Trip Bruce working with me. The goal will be to make some solid laps and get some good seat time. It’s all about learning and those guys will really help my learning curve. It’s going to be a good weekend.”

Gresham comes to Las Vegas propelled by a stellar summer of racing that produced a NASCAR K&N Pro Series East championship. Driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, Gresham scored two wins and led the NKNPSE in top-five finishes (nine), top-10’s (11) and poles (four). He was the only driver to complete every lap – all 1,705 circuits – in K&N Series East competition this season.

Gresham has also turned in a solid 2011 ARCA season behind the wheel of a Venturini Motorsports entry. Gresham’s superspeedway driver development program with the team was a big success producing a second-place finish at Michigan along with a pole position qualifying run and a sixth-place effort at Pocono Raceway.

This past weekend, Gresham closed out the Venturini association winning the pole and finishing fourth-place in the ARCA race at Kansas Speedway.

It was Gresham’s first career event at those raceways, so coming to Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the first time shouldn’t be that intimidating to the 18-year-old Griffin, GA driver.

Max Gresham

“What I really know about Las Vegas is stuff I have picked up by word of mouth from other drivers,” said Gresham, who will wheel the No. 66 Rheem World Crown 300 Silverado in Saturday’s race at LVMS. “A lot of guys tell me it’s rough like Chicago, a place I tested at in the past. It’s another mile and a half track, just like Kansas was for the ARCA race this past weekend. Las Vegas just has more banking and speed to it. It’s going to be important for me to adjust quickly so we can get the truck dialed in. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

In addition to the Las Vegas Truck Series event, Gresham will also compete in the Kroger 200 at Martinsville (VA) Speedway on Saturday, October 29 and in the Ford 200 at Homestead-Miami (FL) Speedway Friday, November 18.

“It’s going to be a big step in my career,” Gresham stated. “I’m there to learn how to drive a truck. It will be all about learning what adjustments they need to make them drive better. It’s all about making good laps.“

Gresham’s NASCAR Camping World Truck Series debut at Las Vegas Motor Speedway will take the green flag at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, October 15. The event will be telecast live on SPEED and will be broadcast as it happens on Motor Racing Network (MRN) radio.

Additional information about Max Gresham can be accessed at www.MaxGresham.com.

Information about Rheem – the industry leader for total heating, cooling and water heating solutions – can be found at www.rheem.com.

Tickets for the 28th-Annual Rheem World Crown 300 at Gresham Motorsports Park in Jefferson, GA November 11-13, are available at www.GreshamMotorsportsPark.com

Information about Turn One Racing can be viewed at www.Turn1Racing.com.

- Turn One Racing Press Release