Concord, NC (May 21, 2014) – Earlier this week, Daniel Suarez, Mackena Bell, and their Rev Racing teammates participated in the inaugural Racing4Vets Veteran Kart Challenge. Racing4Vets is an organization that helps service-disabled veterans get directly involved in motorsports careers and amateur competition by leveraging the power of the motorsports community. In addition to Bell & Suarez, notable participants included NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Alex Bowman and Ryan Truex, NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Jeffrey Earnhardt, and D4D graduate Darrell “Bubba” Wallace who currently races in the NASCAR Camping World Track Series.
Each of the two-dozen teams competing in the 2-hour endurance race were comprised of one professional driver and 3 race fans. Bell and Suarez were each designated as “crew chief” of their 4-person team. After the race fans were paired with a pro driver at random, Bell and Suarez spent the practice session discussing strategy and giving pointers to their teammates on how to best approach various aspects of the GoPro Motorplex’s 0.7-mile sprint track. Once the green flag dropped for the 2-hour endurance race, each member of the team split time behind the wheel, and needless to say, the race fans were eager to test their skill level against that of the pros. As the race took place, fans all of all ages watched from the bleachers and cheered on their favorite drivers. Unfortunately, neither Bell nor Suarez’s team was able to take the checkered flag in first place.
However, as rewarding as winning the race would have been, it would have only amounted to the icing on top of the cake. Rev Racing’s mission last night was to support those that have risked their lives for the freedoms that we enjoy everyday. And based upon the enjoyment of the troops and their support of the Rev Racing team, it’s safe to say that we successfully accomplished our goal.
“I had a blast at Racing4Vets. It was a great event with tons of people. It was an honor to be chosen to be a pro driver and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of guys to be on my team!” said Bell.
Although the Racing4Vets Veteran Kart Challenge has past, there are other ways to become involved in the cause. For more information, please visit www.racing4vets.org
Concord, NC (May 20, 2014) – In a race where the Rev Racing drivers spent the entire 150-lap sprint jockeying for position, two Rev Racing drivers, Jay Beasley & Daniel Suarez, were able to take the checkered flag in the top-10 last Saturday.
Beasley, who secured his first top-5 in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, raced Super Late Models on the west coast last season. After accumulating seven wins in 11 starts in the previous season, expectations were high for Beasley as he brought his talents to the east coast. Rev Racing is optimistic that Beasley’s fourth place finish at Iowa is evidence that his transition period was short lived and Beasley is ready to add a few more top-5’s to his resume before season’s end.
In reference to his top-5, Beasley stated, “Getting a top-5 was a big relief. I feel I ran well because of how hard we worked as a team in the weeks leading up to the race. Every week we go to a different track, and every week we improve as a team. The more seat time I get, the better I will get.” Beasley attributes much of his success to his team both on and off the track, “My crew chief Eddie Dickerson, car chief Matt Booker, and I were able to figure out the formula for what adjustments were needed to make the car run better. Additionally, I would like to thank Aaron, Davin, Mark, John, Mike, Jimmy, Wolfe, Tanner, and Skip as well as Rev Racing, NASCAR, and the D4D program. This is a team effort and as a team we are making progress. Lastly, I would like to thank Sybil Scott for giving me her blessing to earn my first NKNPSE top-5 with a decal honoring the late Wendell Scott on my car.”
Not to be overlooked, Daniel Suarez also finished in the top-10 for the fourth time this season, taking the checkered flag in seventh. After taking the green flag in 14th, Suarez managed to crack the top-10 within the first 20 laps of the race. He remained in the top-10 for much of the race before spinning out and forcing a caution flag a approximately half way through the race; a mistake that would drop him to 18th place. Unfazed by his setback, and the benefactor of a crash later in the race, Suarez was able to ascend through the ranks and finish seventh. Peña and Gifford finished 11th and 19th, respectively. Bell was unable to finish the race due to a pile-up mid-way through the race.
Sybil Scott, daughter of the late Wendell Scott, was ecstatic about Rev Raving’s performance in Iowa and Beasley’s exciting victory in a vehicle honoring her father.
She went on to say, “Jay’s top-5 is awesome. He’s focused on what he’s doing and he took advantage of the opportunity. The Rev Racing program is moving minorities forward and Jay’s accomplishment is an undeniable example that the program is a success. The fact that Rev gives us a platform to raise awareness for my father is tremendous. My hope is that the decal on Jay’s car grabbed the attention of some of the fans in the stands and encouraged them to vote. I am humbled that Rev is raising awareness for my dad, and I think that it speaks volumes of Max, D4D, and Jay’s sponsors. My Dad would be humbled and proud.”
Rev Racing will hold their next racing event, The NASCAR Hall of Fame 150, on May 31, 2014 at the Bowmen Grey Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The race will be held exclusively for NASCAR Hall of Fame members in conjunction with NASCAR’s member appreciation month.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, NC, Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (May 14, 2014) – Rev Racing is ready to hit the track and will head into this weekend’s race at Iowa Speedway with the advantage of having two solid test sessions. After extensive testing last week at Bowman Gray and a few subsequent days to fine-tune cars, expectations are high for the Rev Racing team as it heads to Iowa for the Casey’s General Store 150.
Director of Competition Jefferson Hodges is confident that testing prior to the race will produce positive results at Iowa. “Anytime the drivers and their crews can work together, it’s for the benefit of the team. Even though we couldn’t test at Iowa, the opportunity to test at Bowman Grey was a chance for the drivers and their crews to continue to get acclimated to one another. Any extra time that our drivers can get on the track is a positive for us,” said Hodges.
Ryan Gifford (No. 2 UTI/NASCAR Tech Toyota) – All eyes will be on Gifford this coming weekend, as he will be competing in both the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East and NASCAR Nationwide Series. In 2013, Gifford’s two NKNPSE races at Iowa produced polar opposite resultd. In his first stent, Gifford qualified in the top-10, but finished outside of the top-20. However, his second stent at Iowa a few months later produced opposite results; Gifford took the green flag from the 20th position and took the checkered flag in 6th. Additionally, Gifford secured a top-10 finish in his NNS debut that same weekend. Heading into the Casey’s General Stores 150, Gifford and the No. 2 Toyota are looking to surpass last year’s top-10s and secure a top-5 in each series. Gifford is currently 21st in the NKNPSE point standings.
Daniel Suarez (No. 6 Rev Racing Toyota) – After tire and battery problems put a damper on his NASCAR Trifecta at Richmond in late April, Suarez returns to the track to reassure his fans that one weekend is not determinant of the entire season. Suarez finished his NASCAR Trifecta with a Mexico Toyota Series win in his hometown of Monterrey, Mexico. Now, Suarez is looking to utilize that same driving prowess to collect another victory here in the United States for Rev Racing. With his current 4th place point standing, Suarez has his eye on the championship and is ready for a win at Iowa to put him one race closer to his goal.
Sergio Peña (No. 4 Toyota) – Peña’s last outing resulted in an accident at RIR. Peña is now looking to redeem himself, and return to the form that garnered him his first top-10 at Greenville. Historically, Iowa Speedway hasn’t been the easiest track for Peña. However, having had the opportunity to test the No. 4 Toyota Camry prior to the race and subsequently modify the vehicle to his liking, Peña enters this weekend’s race looking to rewrite history. Peña is currently 19th in the NKNPSE point standings.
Mackena Bell (No. 21 Special Smiles/Lung Force Toyota) – Iowa has historically been a middle-of-the-road track for Bell. In her last two outings at Iowa, Bell took the checkered flag in the mid-teens. However, with three weeks of preparation and few hours behind the wheel of the No. 21 Special Smiles/Lung Force Toyota, Bell and her crew are hoping to finally secure a top-10 at Iowa Speedway.
Jay Beasley (No. 42 RevRacing Toyota) – Newcomer Beasley will be competing at Iowa Speedway for the first time. Despite his inexperience at Iowa Speedway, testing has made Beasley optimistic about his chances of securing his first top-10 in the NKNPSE.
“Testing was great. I’m really looking forward to the race. The car is looking good. The car is going to be dialed. We’re excited,” said Beasley.
Two-lap qualifying for the Casey’s General Store 150 will be Saturday, May 17 at 4:35pm. An autograph session will be held prior to the race at 3:00pm. The race is set to begin at 8:00pm. Follow @RevRacin on Twitter for live race updates.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, NC, Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Featured in PSA for National Movement in Fight Against Lung CancerIndianapolis, IN (May 13, 2014) – Rev Racing driver Mackena Bell, pilot of the Special Smiles Pediatric Dentistry #21 Toyota Camry, is teaming up with the American Lung Association in the launch of LUNG FORCE.
LUNG FORCE is a national health education movement with a mission to unite women to stand together for lung health and against lung cancer. As part of her work with the Lung Association, Bell is featured in a new public service announcement (PSA) focused on this cause.
“Being one of the few woman racecar drivers, I feel a responsibility to call attention to important issues, like women’s lung health. Most women don’t consider lung cancer to be a serious health threat and are not aware of the alarming facts,” said Bell.
“Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer of women with one of the lowest five-year survival rates of all cancer types – approximately 16 percent. The rate of new lung cancer cases in women has doubled over the last 35 years. These are startling statistics, so I’m proud to join the Lung Association’s Lung Force to advance lung health, for innovations in research that will lead to earlier detection and more personalized treatments, so that everyone has a fighting chance,” she said.
Bell, 23, is competing in her fifth season with Rev Racing. In 2013, Bell made the transition from the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series to the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. In her first season racing in the K&N Pro Series, Bell accumulated two top 5 and four top 10 finishes in 14 starts. She also became the highest qualifying female in series history with her 4th place effort at Iowa Speedway.
The PSA will premier during the Indy 500 in Indianapolis on Sunday, May 25 and will air on local TV network affiliates across the country. Visit LungForce.org to view the PSA online.
About Rev Racing: Headquartered in Concord, NC, Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
About the American Lung Association: To save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, and with your generous support, the American Lung Association is “Fighting for Air” through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the American Lung Association or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.Lung.org.
In addition to developing our drivers’ abilities on the track, Rev Racing and the Drive for Diversity program are equally devoted to developing our drivers’ character off of the track. Organized by Habitat for Humanity Charlotte, Rev Racing drivers and front office members recently participated in the rebuilding of a condominium in northern Charlotte for families in need.
Drive for Diversity is an academy-style initiative, housed by Rev Racing, devised to give minorities and women the tools and guidance to succeed in the otherwise expensive sport of automobile racing. The invitation to join the Rev Racing team provides each driver with an opportunity that many individuals only dream of. In return, Rev Racing holds its drivers to the highest standard and encourages them to be active members in our community.
For anyone in the Charlotte area looking to get involved with Habit for Humanity, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Beth Reichert at 704-716-7077 or [email protected]
Rev Racing’s next volunteer initiative will be the Racing4Vets Veteran Kart Challenge at the Go Pro Motorplex (Mooresville, NC) on May 19, 2014. Racing4Vets leverages the power of the motorsports community for the benefit of disabled U.S. military veterans. Rev Racing drivers will be in attendance to compete and sign autographs. Please come out and support the Rev Racing drivers, as well as those who have bravely fought for the freedoms that we enjoy every day. For more information visit: http://www.racing4vets.org
Concord, NC (May 1, 2014) – Over the past five years, Ryan has leveraged the tools and guidance provided by NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity and Rev Racing’s academy-style program to become a staple in the world of automobile racing. In 2010, he became the first African-American in K&N Pro Series East history to earn a pole when he accomplished the feat in the inaugural race at Martinsville. In 2013, Gifford captured his first NKNPSE victory at Richmond International Raceway. That same year he also made his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut with Richard Childress Racing and secured a 9th place finish. And just last week the 24-year-old from Winchester, Tenn. Native was named a member of the NASCAR Next class for the second consecutive year; an honor reserved for individuals NASCAR deems the next superstars of the sport. Now, Rev Racing is proud to announce that Ryan Gifford will make his long awaited return to the NASCAR Nationwide Series with team, Biagi DenBeste Racing.
Biagi DenBeste Racing has committed to racing NASCAR Drive for Diversity and Rev Racing driver Ryan Gifford in two NNS races in 2014. Gifford will make his NNS return at Iowa Speedway, the same track where he made his debut last year. Following Iowa, Gifford will compete at Kentucky Speedway. As a tribute to the historical diversity in NASCAR, Gifford vehicle will feature a logo dedicated to 2014 NASCAR Hall of Fame nominee Wendell Scott.
“I am just really excited to have this opportunity to run in the Nationwide Series. I want to thank Rev Racing and the D4D program for the last five years and hope that growth and success remain in my future with the driving opportunities that come up this season,” said Gifford.
The Drive for Diversity participant currently competes fulltime for Rev Racing in the NKNPSE. NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity initiative is the leading driver development program for multicultural and female drivers across the motorsports industry. Through the academy-style program, NASCAR and Rev Racing are committed to providing training, competition experience and mentoring to young, multicultural and female drivers who, without a doubt, demonstrate the potential to compete at the highest levels of our sport. Gifford is set to run Sunday, May 18th at Iowa Speedway.
Biagi-DenBeste Racing is a NASCAR Nationwide Series team. The team’s shop is located in Mooresville, North Carolina. The team currently fields the #98 Ford Mustang for David Ragan.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, NC, Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (April 28, 2014) – In a weekend comprised of Daniel Suarez’s NASCAR trifecta and NASCAR Nationwide debut, a rain delay, and a few mechanical errors, the Rev Racing team experienced the highs and lows of racing at Richmond International Raceway.
Going into Friday night, all eyes were on Rev Racing’s Daniel Suarez who was set to make his NASCAR Nationwide debut with Joe Gibbs Racing. In his first stent behind the wheel of the Silent Circle/Telcel Toyota Camry, Daniel qualified 12th for the rain delayed ToyotaCare 250. After taking the green flag, Suarez was able to crack the top-10 before a flat tire and a commitment line violation knocked him back to the 30th position. Despite the setback, Suarez was able to make up significant ground, securing the 19th position by race’s end.
The delayed ToyotaCare 250 pushed the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East competition to Saturday morning. Fresh off of his first NASCAR Nationwide race, Suarez, along with teammate Ryan Gifford, were set to lead the charge for Rev Racing. After two optimistic practices, qualifying for the Rev Racing drivers proved to be less than favorable. Mackena Bell and the No. 21 Special Smiles Toyota qualified 14th, the highest of the Rev Racing drivers. Beasley and Suarez, whom qualified 15th and 19th, were the only other Rev Racing drivers to qualify in the top-20.
After taking the green flag, the drivers spent the first few laps jockeying for position. However, 17 laps into the race Sergio Peña was unfortunately forced to pit due to a flat tire. Upon returning the track, Peña had fallen a couple laps down, a deficit he was ultimately unable to overcome. As the race continued, the 25th lap marked the commencement of a competition that was marred with a myriad of yellow flags as the race proved to be an aggressive and physical bout. By races end, damage from other drivers and mechanical issues kept all of the Rev Racing drivers out of the top-20 with the exception of Bell, who finished 15th.
At the conclusion of the NKNPSE race, Suarez immediately hopped on a plane to Mexico for the final stent of his NASCAR trifecta. Ultimately, Suarez was able to return to his hometown of Monterrey, Mexico and secure his third win in the Mexico Toyota Series and fifth NASCAR win on 2014.
As the Rev Racing teams prepare for Iowa, they will have the advantage of testing prior to the May 17 competition. Director of Competition Jefferson Hodges is confident that the additional seat time will allow Rev Racing to return to victory lane once again this season.
The Blue Ox 100 will be broadcast by FOX Sports 1 on Friday, May 2 at 4:30 p.m.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, NC, Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (April 23, 2014) – It is said that history has a way of repeating itself. For Rev Racing, hopefully this notion holds true as the team heads into the Blue Ox 100 at Richmond International Raceway this weekend. Last year, Ryan Gifford and the #2 Toyota Camry led the charge for Rev Racing, as Gifford earned his first K&N Pro Series East victory at the .75-mile oval.
While Gifford is the only active Rev Racing driver with a victory at RIR, Daniel Suarez heads into this weekends race with the momentum of two wins and three top-5s behind him. Additionally, Suarez will enter Friday night’s NKNPSE race with the adrenaline from his NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) debut pumping through his veins, as he will compete in back-to-back races.
Ryan Gifford (No. 2 UTI/NTI Toyota) – The last time Gifford was behind the wheel of the #2 Toyota Camry, he had a stellar outing. After qualifying in the top-10 at Greenville, he went on to secure a 6th place finish and his first top-10 of the season. Having seemingly found the blueprint for Greenville Motor Speedway, Gifford heads into the weekend with the hope that his past experience will allow him to find the blueprint for RIR. Gifford is currently 23rd in the 2014 point standings.
Daniel Suarez (No. 6 Rev Racing Toyota) – After winning yet another race in the Mexico Toyota Series, Suarez returns to the NKNPSE at Richmond to continue his dominant 2014 NKNPSE season. In his last outing at Richmond International Raceway, Suarez made a valiant effort in overtaking 13 competitors during the course of the race. However, after a poor qualification his efforts weren’t enough to crack the top-20. Nonetheless, with the momentum of two NKNPSE victories and three top-5’s on his side, Suarez heads into Friday’s race looking to redeem last year’s run. Suarez is currently 2nd in the 2014 point standings.
Sergio Peña (No. 4 Rev Racing Toyota) – Coming off of his first top-10 of the 2014 NKNPSE season, Peña heads into the Blue Ox 100 with experience on his side. Peña last competed at Richmond with Rev Racing in 2011. Despite his gap in years, he is looking to call upon the experience of his top-10 finish. Peña is currently 18th in the 2014 point standings.
Jay Beasley (No. 42 Rev Racing Toyota) – Beasley will be making his first appearance at Richmond International Raceway. In his last outing, Beasley struggled in qualifications, creating a deficit he was unable to overcome. However, after starting in the back of the pack, Beasley passed six competitors to finish the race in the top-20. Beasley heads into this weekend’s race with the hope that better qualifying will allow him to garner his first top-10 of the season.
Mackena Bell (No. 21 Special Smiles Toyota) – Bell is another Rev Racing driver entering this weekend’s race with experience on her side. In Bell’s last stent at Richmond International Raceway, she secured a top-5 finish after a stellar 8th place qualification effort. Having seemingly found the blueprint for RIR, Bell is looking to build upon her past success and turn last years top-5 into another 2014 victory for Rev Racing.
Two-lap qualifying for the Blue Ox 100 will be Friday, April 25 at 2:05pm followed by an autograph session at 4:00pm in the amphitheater. The race is set to begin at 9:40pm. Follow @RevRacin on Twitter for live race updates.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, NC, Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (April 22, 2014) – Rev Racing’s Daniel Suarez began the 2014 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East season by sweeping the first two races. The Monterrey, Mexico native managed to garner both victories within a matter of three days.
Since then, Suarez has accumulated an additional pair of victories in the NASCAR Mexico Toyota Series, in which he also competes. He races in both series with the mindset that more seat time, no matter the car, will lead to a better understanding of the sport and contribute to his development as a driver. As a result, his work ethic has produced four victories in seven total races this season.
Suarez’s 2014 season has shown that he is a force to be reckoned with in the world of automobile racing. In February, Suarez’s accomplishments earned him the NASCAR Diverse Driver Award, an industry-wide recognition of his on-track success. His achievements have not only caught the attention of the NKNPSE competition, but have also landed him an invitation to compete in the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS). This weekend at Richmond International Speedway, Suarez will attempt to outshine his back-to-back wins in Daytona by completing a trifecta. In addition to driving in the NKNPSE for Rev Racing, he will make his NNS debut with Joe Gibbs Racing, before flying to Mexico to compete in the NTS.
Suarez is fully aware of the daunting task ahead of him, but heads into the weekend with the same calm, optimistic and humble demeanor that has gotten him to this point:
“I am grateful to Joe Gibbs Racing for this opportunity and very thankful with Telcel, Silent Circle and Telmex for putting their confidence in me. This is one of the most important steps in my career. Also, I want to say thank you to NASCAR and Rev Racing for giving me the opportunity to race and learn about everything in this world.”
Suarez, 22, joined Rev Racing and the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program in 2013. Suarez ran a full season in the NKNPSE, garnering a team-high six top 5, and nine top 10 finishes. The highlight of his 2013 season was his first ever NKNPSE victory at the Columbus Motor Speedway. Additionally, Suarez earned three 2nd place finishes in his final four races, propelling him to 3rd in the final 2013 season rankings. Suarez is currently 2nd in the 2014 NKNPSE standings.
“Daniel is Rev Racing’s fourth driver to participate in a National Series Event. He is very talented, and has shown continuous progress. We are proud to play a major role in Daniel’s development,” said team owner, Max Siegel.
While Suarez’s Nationwide Series debut is a testament to hard work and dedication, it is also a testament to the mission of Rev Racing and the Drive for Diversity Program. Rev Racing houses an academy-style program that provides young minority drivers with the resources to succeed in the sport of NASCAR. On Friday, April 25, 2014, Suarez will be the next minority driver to utilize the resources that Rev Racing has provided and make it to the National Series.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, NC, Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (March 25, 2014) – Speed isn’t everything when it comes to racing. Strategy is equally as important, and the Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet 150 at Greenville Motor Speedway proved to be more of a chess match than checkers. After trailing for most of the race, Rev Racing finished with one driver in the top-5 and 3 in the top-10.
With Ryan Gifford as the only Rev Racing driver to qualify in the top-10, the rest of the group had their work cut out for them over the course of the 150-lap race. Once the green flag was issued, Gifford wasted little time improving his position to 8th. While this was occurring, Suarez, who had started 17th, was mercilessly passing competitor after competitor. By lap 50, Suarez had cracked the top-10 to join teammate Gifford. By the halfway mark Suarez, Gifford, and Peña were all in the top-15.
The next 75 laps were defined by strategy; one that ultimately paid dividends. Over the course of the next 25 laps, both Gifford and Peña dropped out of the top 15 in order to preserve their tires and prepare for one final push. Things started to look bleak as they fell all the way to 16th and 18th place. However with 40 laps to go, Peña and Gifford made their moves, ascending through the standings, passing one car after another. With 25 laps to go they were both challenging for a spot in the top-10, and after a restart with 13 laps to go, both were able to break through. Meanwhile, Suarez was neck and neck with P4 and P6, fighting to hold on to his 5th place standing. Another caution with 10 laps to go brought the action to a halt. The restart came with 6 laps to go and proved to be advantageous for Suarez, Gifford, and Peña as they solidified their 5th, 6th, and 9th place positions and held on until the checkered flag. Beasley and Bell finished the race 19th and 20th, respectively.
While Peña is please with his first top-10 of the season, he is far from content. In reference to his performance, Peña stated, “The start of the season has been pretty rough, so this was a nice relief. I want to thank my crew chief Wolfy and car chief Tanner for all of the hard work they’ve been putting in. We still have some work to do though. We need a 9th place finish to be a bad day, not a good day.”
The rest of the Rev Racing team shares this same mindset. After taking Sunday to rest and celebrate the impressive performances, the entire team was back at work early Monday morning to prepare for the next race.
Rev Racing returns to the track on April 25th for the Blue Ox 100 at Richmond International Speedway.
Unsung Hero of the Week
Mark Green (No. 2 Toyota Crew Chief/Shop Foreman) – Green returns to Rev Racing as Crew Chief of the No. 2 Rev Racing Toyota. In 2013, he helped Ryan Gifford earn his first career victory in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. That same year, the No. 2 Camry finished the season with four top-5 and six top-10 finishes. Green brings a wealth of racing knowledge with him to Rev Racing having competed in both the NASCAR Busch (currently Nationwide) and Sprint Cup Series.
In addition to his role as crew chief, Green is also the shop foreman. Under the direction of the Director of Competition, Green is responsible for the day-to-day management of the K&N Shop. Green works tirelessly with upper management to plan and develop company goals. He assists with optimizing department operations to ensure program efficiency and productivity, while implementing new procedures and policies as necessary. Lastly, Mark oversees the production and assembly of all the K&N race cars.
Green and Gifford just recently garnered their first top-10 finish of the 2014 season at Greenville Motor Speedway.
Now that the Rev Racing drivers have been battle tested at Bristol, they are more than prepared to take on Greenville Pickens Speedway. Historically, Greenville Pickens Speedway has been a track where Rev Racing drivers have found success, and they’re heading into Saturday’s race hoping to replicate the past. The half-mile asphalt track at Greenville isn’t built for as much speed as the track at Bristol. Hopefully the slight difference in speed will be enough for Rev Racing to end up in victory lane for the 3rd time this season. Peña and Suarez head into Greenville as the veterans of the Rev Racing team, having collectively garnered a win and 2nd place finish over the course of their careers.
Daniel Suarez (No. 6 Rev Racing Toyota) – After winning the first two races of the season, Suarez was slowed down in Bristol by mechanical issues and, for the first time this season, finished outside of the Top 10. However, Suarez has a history of competing well at Greenville, garnering a second place finish last season and three Top 10 finishes overall in his career. Suarez is currently 2nd in the point standings.
Sergio Peña (No. 4 Toyota) – Like Suarez, Peña is heading into Greenville with the confidence and stature of a champion. Having already garnered a win and three Top 10s in his career at Greenville, Peña and the No. 4 Toyota are looking to repeat history. Peña is currently 21st in the point standings.
Ryan Gifford (No. 2 UTI/NTI Toyota) – Gifford was another driver sidelined by mechanical issues at Bristol. However, after collaborating with his crew members and making the necessary modifications to his vehicle, Gifford heads into Greenville with renewed spirits. In his last two appearances at Bristol, Gifford finished 13th and 19th, respectively. Gifford is currently 25th in the point standings.
Jay Beasley (No. 42 Rev Racing Toyota) – Beasley will be making his first appearance at Greenville Pickens Speedway. Coming off of a hard-fought 15th place finish at Bristol, Beasley is looking to improve upon his last race and add a Top 10 to his K&N Series East resume. Beasley is currently 19th in the point standings.
Mackena Bell (No. 21 Special Smiles Toyota) – Bell was another Rev driver sidelined by mechanical issues at Bristol. However, her last appearances at Greenville resulted in a Top 5 finish and she heads in to Saturday’s race looking to garner another. Bell is currently 16th in the point standings.
Two-lap Qualifying for the Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet 150 will be Saturday, March 22 at 6:00pm followed by an autograph session at 7:00pm. The race begins at 8:00pm. Follow @RevRacin on twitter for live race updates.
The Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet 150 will air on Friday, March 28 at 11 a.m.
About Rev Racing: Headquartered in Concord, N.C., Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (March 18, 2014) –Bristol Motor Speedway is the fastest and most difficult track that the K&N Series East drivers will compete on this season, and the track lived up to every facet of its reputation. Each of the Rev Racing drivers were pushed to their limit, and while none were able to place in the Top-10, they showed resilience in a race marred by so many accidents that only 22 of the original 35 cars were able to cross the finish line.
At the beginning of the race there was little action from Rev Racing drivers as they spent time jockeying back and forth for position. Unluckily, Gifford blew a tire on lap 19 and tagged the outside wall of turn four eliminating him from the race. Thankfully he did not sustain any injuries.
By lap 33, a few other drivers had gone down and both Peña and Bell had endured enough contact from other drivers that they needed to pit under a yellow flag. However, upon the return of the green flag the two Rev Racing drivers were back on the track and marched on.
Throughout all of the chaos, Suarez slowly made his way through the pack, jumping from 17th to 10th by lap 52. He continued to show the same toughness he exhibited in Daytona, and by lap 72 Suarez had increased his position to 8th. Unfortunately, by lap 84 Suarez suffered a flat front-right tire and was forced to give up his top-10 position and pit. Meanwhile, the rest of the Rev Racing drivers were fighting for position in the back, looking to crack the top-20.
By lap 100, Beasley was now the leading Rev Racing drivers having finally cracked the top-20. A wreck by Nick Drake on lap 102 drew a yellow flag from officials. The yellow flag gave Suarez’s crew just enough time to finish the necessary repairs to his vehicle, allowing him to return to the track. Officials reissued the green flag on lap 109, however as drivers fought for position after the restart, Peña became collateral damage of a big pile-up on turn four, sidelining the No. 4 Toyota for the remainder of the race.
As the race neared its end, Beasley, Bell, and Suarez were determined to finish the race, undeterred by the considerable damage to each of their vehicles. And with their heads held high, each of them crossed the finish line despite being out of contention for a top-10 finish. Final results illustrated that Beasley, Bell, Peña, Suarez, and Gifford finished the race 15th, 21st, 24th, 26th, and 34th.
Rev Racing will return to action on Saturday, March 22 for the Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet 150 at Greenville (S.C.) Pickens Speedway.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, N.C., Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (March 12, 2014) – Rev Racing returns to action on Saturday, March 15, for the PittLite 125 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Rev Racing has been in Victory Lane for the first two races of the season and our drivers are looking to continue this historic beginning to the 2014 season at the .533-mile concrete oval.
Daniel Suarez (No. 6 Rev Racing Toyota) – After two wins in Daytona to kick off the season, Suarez is the current points leader in the series standings with a discernable lead. He is looking to continue his dominance and bring home his third trophy in 3 races. Last season, Suarez finished 26th at Bristol after starting the race 24th.
Ryan Gifford (No. 2 UTI/NTI Toyota) – Gifford is currently 24th in the series standings. After competing in his back-up car for the first two races of the season, Gifford is eager to make up for lost ground now that he is reunited with his primary vehicle. Last year, Gifford garnered a 3rd place finish at Bristol after starting the race in 8th.
Sergio Peña (No. 4 Toyota) – Peña is currently 18th in the series point standings. Peña competed at Bristol Motor Speedway two years ago, but will be competing in Bristol for the first time as a member of Rev Racing.
Jay Beasley (No. 42 Rev Racing Toyota) – Beasley, who will be making his first appearance at Bristol Motor speedway, is currently 22nd in the series standings.
Mackena Bell (No. 21 Special Smiles Toyota) – Bell is currently 12th in the series point standings. After garnering a top 10 finish in her first outing of the 2014 season, she is eager for another with the hope of moving into the top 10 of the point standings after this weekend. In her last outing at Bristol, Bell started 25th and finished 29th.
Two-lap qualifying for the PittLite 125 will be on Thursday, March 13 at 5:00pm and the race will be on Saturday, March 15 at 4:45pm. Follow @RevRacin on twitter for live race updates.
ABOUT REV RACING: Headquartered in Concord, N.C., Rev Racing, owned by Max Siegel, operates the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program, which is the industry’s leading developmental program for ethnic minorities and women drivers and drivers and pit crew members. For more information about Rev Racing visit https://revracing.net or follow us on Twitter @RevRacin.
Concord, NC (Feb. 19, 2014) – Daniel Suarez has swept the first two races of the 2014 K&N Pro Series East season.
Suarez’s performance at the UNOH Battle at the Beach was nothing short of dominant as he led the pack for the final 119 laps of the 150-lap circuit.
After starting the race in 6th place, Suarez moved up to 4th place after only 4 laps. Insatiable in his effort to increase his standing, Suarez moved into 3rd place 15 laps into the race. By lap 31, Suarez maneuvered into first and the rest is history.
“It’s crazy, man. We have been working so hard to make this happen and for us to come through is amazing,” said Suarez who opened the season with back-to-back wins.
Tuesday night’s win marked the 3rd victory for Suarez and the 14th victory for Rev Racing since 2010. Additionally, the Monterrey, Mexico, driver’s win makes this the first season since Sean Caisse’s 2006 campaign that a driver has won the first two K&N Pro Series East races.
The remaining members of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, Sergio Peña, Ryan Gifford, and Jay Beasley finished the race 13th, 16th, and 20th, respectively.
Mackena Bell, pilot of the #21 Special Smiles Toyota Camry, came in 17th.
The UNOH Battle At The Beach doubleheader, which also included a NASCAR Whelen Modified/NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour special event, aired live on Fox Sports 2. The K&N portion of the event will rebroadcast on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 5:30 p.m. on Fox Sports 1. Suarez’s New Smyrna win will air on FOX Sports 1 on Saturday at 9 a.m.
The NASCAR K&N Pro Series East will resume with the PittLite 125 on March 15 at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.
NASCAR K&N PRO SERIES EAST-UNOH Battle At The Beach
Unofficial Results
Tuesday
At Daytona International Speedway (.37-mile)
Daytona Beach, Fla.
Lap length: 0.37 miles
(Start position in parentheses)
1. (6) Daniel Suarez, Monterrey, Mexico, Toyota, 150 laps, 48.121 mph.
2. (2) Austin Hill, Winston, Ga., Ford, 150.
3. (19) Brandon McReynolds, Mooresville, N.C., Toyota, 150.
4. (11) Nick Drake, Mooresville, N.C., Toyota, 150.
5. (9) Lee Pulliam, Semora, N.C., Toyota, 150.
6. (10) Kenzie Ruston, El Reno, Okla., Chevrolet, 150.
7. (3) Gray Gaulding, Colonial Heights, Va., Chevrolet, 150.
8. (18) Patrick Staropoli, Plantation, Fla., Toyota, 150.
9. (12) Scott Heckert, Ridgefield, Conn., Chevrolet, 150.
10. (21) Kaz Grala, Westborough, Mass., Chevrolet, 150.
11. (15) Brandon Gdovic, Yorktown, Va., Toyota, 150.
12. (23) Jesse Little, Sherrills Ford, N.C., Chevrolet, 150.
13. (17) Sergio Pena, Winchester, VA, Toyota, 150.
14. (13) Cameron Hayley, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Chevrolet, 150.
15. (1) Ben Rhodes, Louisville, Ky., Chevrolet, 150.
16. (14) Jay Beasley, Las Vegas, Nev., Toyota, 150.
17. (20) Mackena Bell, Carson City, Nev., Toyota, 149.
18. (7) Brodie Kostecki, Perth, Australia, Toyota, 148.
19. (22) Eddie MacDonald, Rowley, Mass., Chevrolet, 148.
20. (16) Ryan Gifford, Winchester, Tenn., Toyota, 147.
21. (8) David Garbo, Jr., Stonington, Conn., Toyota, 145.
22. (5) Brennan Newberry, Bakersfield, Calif., Chevrolet, 143.
23. (4) Ronnie Bassett, Jr., Winston Salem, NC, Toyota, 143.
24. (26) Brandon Jones, Atlanta, Ga., Toyota, 143.
25. (25) Jerry Dawson, Saugus, Mass., Chevrolet, 81.
26. (24) Cory Joyce, Gilford, NH, Chevrolet, 74.
Race Statistics
Time of Race: 1 hour 9 minutes 12 seconds
Margin of Victory: .596 seconds
Fastest Qualifier: B. Rhodes * (71.655 mph, 18.589 seconds)
Caution Flags: 8 for 54 laps.
Lead Changes: 1 among 2 drivers.
Lap Leaders: G. Gaulding 1-31; D. Suarez 32-150.
Standings: 1. D. Suarez, 96; 2. L. Pulliam, 78; 3. K. Ruston, 77; 4. G. Gaulding, 76; 5. C. Hayley, 73; 6. B. McReynolds, 71; 7. B. Rhodes, 69; 8. N. Drake, 69; 9. P. Staropoli, 69; 10. B. Gdovic, 68.
Mackena Bell wasted no time adding to her list accomplishments with an 8th place finish at the New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS Saturday night at New Smyrna Speedway.
After two successful practices, Bell qualified 18th out of 30 drivers. “We were fast in practice and the car did pretty much whatever I wanted it to do,” Bell stated. “I just needed to find a little more speed in qualifying.” Despite being displeased with her qualifying time, Bell kept her head high and remained determined to make up for lost ground.
In the first 20 laps, Bell moved up 5 positions. By lap 42, she was in 12th place, and moved into 11th place by the halfway break. Once the drivers returned to the track Bell continued to move up in the field until she positioned herself in eighth where she would ultimately finish the race.
“From an 18th starting position, what we were able to accomplish tonight was awesome. [Tonight’s race] makes me very optimistic about this year and thankful for all the guys on my team.”
Last night’s top 10 finish gave Bell her fifth top 10 finish since moving up to the K&N Pro Series.
The K&N Pro Series East will have a quick turn around as the series will also be a part of Tuesday’s UNOH Battle At The Beach on the backstretch at Daytona International Speedway.
The New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS will air on FOX Sports 1 on Saturday at 9 a.m.
ABOUT SPECIAL SMILES PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY: Special Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is a woman-owned business located in Indianapolis, IN. Special Smiles saw the chance to jumpstart happy healthy smiles through partnering with fellow leading woman Mackena Bell. With victory in sight, and Bell behind the wheel, the Bell/Special Smiles team hopes to make successful, memorable smiles wherever they turn.
UNOFFICIAL RESULTS
NASCAR K&N PRO SERIES EAST-New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS Results
Sunday
At New Smyrna Speedway
New Smyrna Beach, Fla.
Lap length: 0.48 miles
(Start position in parentheses)
1. (11) Daniel Suarez, Monterrey, Mexico, Toyota, 150 laps, 65.587 mph.
2. (1) Cameron Hayley, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Chevrolet, 150.
3. (10) Brandon Jones, Atlanta, Ga., Chevrolet, 150.
4. (2) Ben Rhodes, Louisville, Ky., Chevrolet, 150.
5. (5) Lee Pulliam, Semora, N.C., Toyota, 150.
6. (6) Kenzie Ruston, El Reno, Okla., Chevrolet, 150.
7. (8) Gray Gaulding, Colonial Heights, Va., Chevrolet, 150.
8. (18) Mackena Bell, Carson City, Nev., Toyota, 150.
9. (17) Brandon Gdovic, Yorktown, Va., Toyota, 150.
10. (21) Kaz Grala, Westborough, Mass., Chevrolet, 150.
11. (24) Patrick Staropoli, Plantation, Fla., Toyota, 150.
12. (15) Matt Tifft, Hinckley, Ohio, Dodge, 150.
13. (16) Brennan Newberry, Bakersfield, Calif., Chevrolet, 150.
14. (3) Brandon McReynolds, Mooresville, N.C., Toyota, 150.
15. (14) Nick Drake, Mooresville, N.C., Toyota, 150.
16. (12) David Garborcauskas, Jr., Stonington, Conn., Toyota, 150.
17. (22) Eddie MacDonald, Rowley, Mass., Chevrolet, 150.
18. (13) Jesse Little, Sherrills Ford, N.C., Chevrolet, 150.
19. (23) Ronnie Bassett, Jr., Winston Salem, NC, Toyota, 150.
20. (4) Brodie Kostecki, Perth, Australia, Toyota, 150.
21. (9) Scott Heckert, Ridgefield, Conn., Chevrolet, 150.
22. (20) Sergio Pena, Winchester, VA, Toyota, 149.
23. (25) Ryan Gifford, Winchester, Tenn., Toyota, 149.
24. (29) Jay Beasley, Las Vegas, Nev., Toyota, 149.
25. (19) Nathan Russell, Curwensville, PA, Chevrolet, 148.
26. (28) Clint King, Denton, N.C., Chevrolet, 135, off track.
27. (7) Austin Hill, Winston, Ga., Ford, 116, off track.
28. (27) Sam Hunt, Midlothian, VA, Toyota, 104.
29. (30) Rusty Skewes, Bluefield, Va., Chevrolet, 66, accident.
30. (26) Jerry Dawson, Saugus, Mass., Chevrolet, 58, handling.
Race Statistics
Time of Race: 1 hour 5 minutes 52 seconds
Margin of Victory: .083 seconds
Fastest Qualifier: C.Hayley (93.522 mph, 18.477 seconds)
Caution Flags: 3 for 16 laps.
Lead Changes: 5 among 6 drivers.
Lap Leaders: C. Hayley (grid), A. Hill 1-3; K. Ruston 4-7; G. Gaulding 8-12; B. Jones 13-47; D. Suarez 48-150.
Standings: 1. D. Suarez, 48; 2. C. Hayley, 42; 3. B. Jones, 42; 4. B. Rhodes, 40; 5. L. Pulliam, 39; 6. K. Ruston, 39; 7. G. Gaulding, 38; 8. M. Bell, 36; 9. B. Gdovic, 35; 10. K. Grala, 34.
Concord, NC (Feb. 17, 2014) – It didn’t take long for Daniel Suarez to capitalize on the momentum built in his 2013 campaign. After an offseason of hard work and rigorous preparation, Suarez kicked off the 2014 season in heroic fashion, earning his second career victory at the New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS Saturday night at New Smyrna Speedway. With the margin of victory being 0.083 seconds, Sunday’s K&N Pro Series East season opener proved to be an exciting spectacle.
Starting the race in 11th place, Suarez wasted little time moving up in the field. By lap 28, Suarez maneuvered into fourth place and continued his ascension through the pack until ultimately taking a three-car-length lead 51 laps into the race. From this moment forward, Suarez’s lead would diminish, but was never lost.
With four laps to go, Cameron Hayley muscled his way alongside Suarez, setting the stage for what was eventually a photo finish. The two drivers rubbed and stayed side-by-side, but Suarez was able to hold on to the lead just long enough to beat Hayley to the white flag by mere inches.
Behind the wheel of the No. 6 Toyota Camry, Suarez humbly attributes his success to his supporting team. When asked about his victory he stated, “First I want to say thank you to everybody at Rev Racing, and more importantly the No. 6 Toyota Camry Sunoco team. Since early Saturday morning they’ve been working very hard.” He continued with, “I also would like to thank NASCAR for the opportunity to be apart of the [Drive for Diversity] program for a second year. This is an awesome win for everyone involved.”
Saturday’s victory marks Suarez’s sixth top-three finish in his last eight NASCAR K&N Pro Series East races dating back to last year. Driving for Rev Racing and NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity Program, the 22-year-old gave Rev Racing its 13th first place finish since 2010. The Monterrey, Mexico, driver is also a member of the NASCAR Next program that spotlights NASCAR’s young and talented rising stars.
With Daniel Suarez and Cameron Hayley finishing first and second, Brandon Jones, Ben Rhodes, and Lee Pulliam rounded out the top five. Kenzie Ruston finished sixth, followed by Gray Gaulding, Mackena Bell, Brandon Gdovic and rookie Kaz Grala. Additionally, Hayley was awarded the 21 Means 21 Pole Award presented by Coors Brewing Company.
The remaining members of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program, Sergio Peña, Ryan Gifford, and Jay Beasley finished the race 22nd, 23rd, and 24th, respectively.
“We closed the 2013 strong and we opened the 2014 on the same way, but now we need to stay focused as we head into Daytona’s Battle at the beach” said Suarez.
The K&N Pro Series East will have a quick turnaround, as the series will also be a part of Tuesday’s UNOH Battle At The Beach on the backstretch at Daytona International Speedway.
The New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS will air on FOX Sports 1 on Saturday at 9 a.m.
UNOFFICIAL RESULTS
NASCAR K&N PRO SERIES EAST-New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS Results
Sunday
At New Smyrna Speedway
New Smyrna Beach, Fla.
Lap length: 0.48 miles
(Start position in parentheses)
1. (11) Daniel Suarez, Monterrey, Mexico, Toyota, 150 laps, 65.587 mph.
2. (1) Cameron Hayley, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Chevrolet, 150.
3. (10) Brandon Jones, Atlanta, Ga., Chevrolet, 150.
4. (2) Ben Rhodes, Louisville, Ky., Chevrolet, 150.
5. (5) Lee Pulliam, Semora, N.C., Toyota, 150.
6. (6) Kenzie Ruston, El Reno, Okla., Chevrolet, 150.
7. (8) Gray Gaulding, Colonial Heights, Va., Chevrolet, 150.
8. (18) Mackena Bell, Carson City, Nev., Toyota, 150.
9. (17) Brandon Gdovic, Yorktown, Va., Toyota, 150.
10. (21) Kaz Grala, Westborough, Mass., Chevrolet, 150.
11. (24) Patrick Staropoli, Plantation, Fla., Toyota, 150.
12. (15) Matt Tifft, Hinckley, Ohio, Dodge, 150.
13. (16) Brennan Newberry, Bakersfield, Calif., Chevrolet, 150.
14. (3) Brandon McReynolds, Mooresville, N.C., Toyota, 150.
15. (14) Nick Drake, Mooresville, N.C., Toyota, 150.
16. (12) David Garborcauskas, Jr., Stonington, Conn., Toyota, 150.
17. (22) Eddie MacDonald, Rowley, Mass., Chevrolet, 150.
18. (13) Jesse Little, Sherrills Ford, N.C., Chevrolet, 150.
19. (23) Ronnie Bassett, Jr., Winston Salem, NC, Toyota, 150.
20. (4) Brodie Kostecki, Perth, Australia, Toyota, 150.
21. (9) Scott Heckert, Ridgefield, Conn., Chevrolet, 150.
22. (20) Sergio Pena, Winchester, VA, Toyota, 149.
23. (25) Ryan Gifford, Winchester, Tenn., Toyota, 149.
24. (29) Jay Beasley, Las Vegas, Nev., Toyota, 149.
25. (19) Nathan Russell, Curwensville, PA, Chevrolet, 148.
26. (28) Clint King, Denton, N.C., Chevrolet, 135, off track.
27. (7) Austin Hill, Winston, Ga., Ford, 116, off track.
28. (27) Sam Hunt, Midlothian, VA, Toyota, 104.
29. (30) Rusty Skewes, Bluefield, Va., Chevrolet, 66, accident.
30. (26) Jerry Dawson, Saugus, Mass., Chevrolet, 58, handling.
Race Statistics
Time of Race: 1 hour 5 minutes 52 seconds
Margin of Victory: .083 seconds
Fastest Qualifier: C.Hayley (93.522 mph, 18.477 seconds)
Caution Flags: 3 for 16 laps.
Lead Changes: 5 among 6 drivers.
Lap Leaders: C. Hayley (grid), A. Hill 1-3; K. Ruston 4-7; G. Gaulding 8-12; B. Jones 13-47; D. Suarez 48-150.
Standings: 1. D. Suarez, 48; 2. C. Hayley, 42; 3. B. Jones, 42; 4. B. Rhodes, 40; 5. L. Pulliam, 39; 6. K. Ruston, 39; 7. G. Gaulding, 38; 8. M. Bell, 36; 9. B. Gdovic, 35; 10. K. Grala, 34.
Concord, N.C. (Feb. 13, 2014) – This weekend Mackena Bell heads to Florida as a contender, but hopes to return to North Carolina as a winner. For Bell, the forthcoming races in New Smyrna and Daytona are not only two opportunities to win a race, but also two opportunities to make a statement. In a sport that has traditionally been dominated by men, Bell looks to disprove the notion that gender plays a role in one’s ability to compete in motorsports. Backed by the woman-owned pediatric dentist office, Bell will be piloting the Special Smiles # 21 Toyota Camry, looking to make a strong start to her 2014 campaign and established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.
Mackena Bell (No. 21 Special Smiles Toyota) – Bell, 23, is competing in her fifth season with Rev Racing. In 2013, Bell made the transition from the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series to the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. During her 2013 campaign she earned her first top 5 finish in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East at Richmond International Speedway. Additionally, she became the highest qualifying female in NASCAR K&N Pro Series East history with a fourth place qualifying effort at the Iowa Speedway.
Qualifying for the New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS will be Sunday, February 16 at 5:30pm with the race beginning at 7:30pm. Follow @RevRacin on twitter for live race updates.
Qualifying for the UNOH Battle at the Beach will be Tuesday, February 18 at
4:00pm with the race beginning at 8:45pm. Follow @RevRacin on twitter for
live race updates.
ABOUT SPECIAL SMILES PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY: Special Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is a woman-owned business located in Indianapolis, IN. Special Smiles saw the chance to jumpstart happy healthy smiles through partnering with fellow leading woman Mackena Bell. With victory in sight, and Bell behind the wheel, the Bell/Special Smiles team hopes to make successful, memorable smiles wherever they turn.
Concord, N.C. (Feb. 13, 2014) – With a revamped roster and veteran leadership, Rev Racing is looking to make the 2014 season one for the record books. Leading the charge will be Ryan Gifford and Daniel Suarez; two drivers who earned their first career win in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East last season. In addition to their K&N Pro Series East victories, Suarez finished the season third in the series point standings, while Gifford competed in his first NASCAR Nationwide Series race.
The team has another strong driver lineup this year, including Drive for Diversity drivers Daniel Suarez, Ryan Gifford, Sergio Peña, and Jay Beasley.
Daniel Suarez (No. 6 Sunoco Toyota) – Suarez, 22, joined Rev Racing and the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program in 2013. Suarez ran a full season in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, garnering a team-high six top 5, and nine top 10 finishes. The highlight of his 2013 season was his win at the Columbus Motor Speedway, marking his first ever K&N Pro Series East victory. Additionally, Suarez earned five 2nd place finishes in his final four races, propelling him to 3rd in the final season rankings.
Ryan Gifford (No. 2 Sunoco/Langley Speedway Toyota) – Ryan Gifford, 24, is competing in his fifth season with the Rev Racing Team and NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity Program. Gifford’s 2013 season consisted of 14 starts, earning four top 5 and six top 10 finishes; one of which was his first K&N Pro Series East win at Richmond International Raceway. 2013 also proved to be a milestone year for Gifford as he was invited to race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. In his Nationwide Series debut, Gifford started 23rd and finished ninth. He finished the 2013 season 11th in the rankings.
Sergio Peña (No. 4 Technical Institute Toyota) – Sergio Peña returns to Rev Racing for the 2014 season after a two year absence. In 2013, Peña switched to the K&N Pro Series West. In his lone season, he accumulated two top 5 and three top 10 finishes.
Jay Beasley (No. 42 Langley Speedway Toyota) – In his first season with Rev Racing’s Drive for Diversity Program, Beasley will be competing in the K&N Pro Series East after racing super late models last season. In 2013, Beasley accumulated seven wins from 11 starts, one of which was the 2013 Bullring NASCAR Super Late Model Series. Additionally, he earned one pole. Beasley also made history in 2013 by becoming the first African American to win a race at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
2013 was a historical year for Rev Racing and the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program. The season saw four past and current program participants make starts at the national level of the sport with Paulie Harraka in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Kyle Larson and Ryan Gifford in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and Darrell Wallace Jr. in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. From the Drive for Diversity Program’s start, Rev Racing has had 12 wins, 48 top 5, and 85 top 10 finishes in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, with drivers finishing among the top three in points every season.
Qualifying for the New Smyrna 150 presented by JEGS will be Sunday, February 16 at 5:30pm with the race beginning at 7:30pm. Follow @RevRacin on Twitter for live race updates.
Qualifying for the UNOH Battle at the Beach will be Tuesday, February 18 at 4:00pm with the race beginning at 8:45pm.
The Rev Racing NASCAR K&N Pro Series East drivers will take to the track for the final time this year at Road Atlanta in Braselton, GA on Friday, Oct. 18. This will also mark the final race on the 2013 NASCAR K&N Pro Series (NKNPS) East schedule. It has been a season to remember for Rev Racing, with Daniel Suarez and Ryan Gifford both earning their first career win, and all four Rev Racing drivers heading into the final race inside the top-15 in points.
Bryan Ortiz (No. 4 Rev Racing Toyota) – Ortiz is looking forward to competing at Road Atlanta due to his experience racing road courses. He finished second at Virginia International Raceway earlier this season, the first of two road courses on the schedule, and is looking to capture his first career win this weekend.
Daniel Suarez (No. 6 Visit Acapulco Toyota) – Suarez, who’s moved up to third in points after a string of top-five finishes, has found success at road courses. The Mexico native led over half the race at Virginia International Raceway before engine failure, but is confident he can come out ahead this time at Road Atlanta.
Mackena Bell (No. 21 Toyota Racing Development Toyota) – The race at Virginia International Raceway was Bell’s first time racing on a road course since 2010. She earned a 17th place and gained valuable seat time. She’s looking forward to racing at Road Atlanta with her first road course of the season behind her, and valuable experience to rely on.
Ryan Gifford (No. 2 Sunoco/NASCAR Technical Institute/UTI Toyota) – Gifford had a great showing at Virginia International Raceway, where he led a lap and ran consistently in the top five. Unfortunately engine failure late in the race ended his day with a 21st place finish. Gifford is tied for 10th in points and is looking to gain a few spots this weekend.
There will be two practice sessions on Thursday, Oct. 17 at 8 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. followed by qualifying at 4 p.m. The Road Atlanta 115 will begin at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 18. It will air on Fox Sports 2, Nov. 2 at 10 a.m. ET.
