2026-05-13

Cary Terrance Holds off Felix Roy in Thursday Night Thunder Debut

Plattsburgh, NY-It was opening night of “Thursday Night Thunder” at the Airborne Park Speedway, and the fans who braved the chilly temperatures to take in the action didn’t go away disappointed. The crowd that was on hand was treated to an evening of hard-fought competition and several thrilling battles on A-Verdi Storage Night.

The first feature of the evening was the 30-lap main event for the DirtCar 358 Modifieds. After an impressive run in his heat race, Carey Terrance was equally dominant in the feature. Terrance and Mike Mahaney brought the field to the green flag, with Terrance grabbing the lead. Dany Gagne slipped underneath Mahaney in the opening laps but was no match for Terrance, who consistently pulled away.

Two cautions in a row on lap 14 brought the field back together. On the restart, Felix Roy pulled off a two-for-one, passing Mahaney and Gagne to move to the second spot and set his sights on Terrance. With Terrance working the high line, Roy ran the bottom, trying to reel him in. Terrance bobbled and slipped out of the groove on lap 26 at the exit of turn two. Roy advanced to the rear bumper of Terrance but couldn’t make the pass. Roy took a last-ditch shot off of four coming to the checkers, but Terrance escaped with the victory. Roy crossed the line second, followed by Mahaney, Gagne, and Tim Fuller.

Shane Pecore enjoyed winning the J&S Steel feature so much on opening night that he returned to the “Big A” to try to duplicate that effort. The Cornwall, Ontario driver did just that as he roared from the number two spot on the grid to make it two for two on the young campaign. Codie Aubin started on the pole and controlled the point for the first seven laps. Pecore had lost a position to Joey Scarborough but drove around Scarborough and Aubin on the high side on lap eight and drove off into the night. Scarborough powered around Aubin for second place a lap later, but Pecore was masterful in lapped traffic, building a healthy cushion between himself and the Brandon, Vermont driver.

Pecore completed his second straight run to the checkers, with Scaborough second, Cory Castell third, Aubin fourth, and Nick Heywood fifth.

A week and a half ago, with his wife getting ready to give birth to their second child, David Johnson rolled to victory in the opening night feature for the Rain Pro of Vermont Limited Sportsman division. Now the father of two sons, Johnson made it two in a row as he chased down early pacesetter Gary English to collect the top spot on the podium. English sprang from the top starting spot on the grid and assumed control for the first 11 laps. It appeared as though English might run away and hide from the pack, but Johnson was biding his time. Boomer Patterson briefly nosed ahead of Johnson for the number two spot at the halfway point. The caution light came on for a spin with nine laps remaining, and Johnson decided it was time to go.

On the restart, Johnson went from third to first, flying past both Patterson and English, and held off his challengers the rest of the way. English maintained the second spot, Brogan Roberts placed third, Patterson slipped to fourth, and Lea-Jeanne Lauziere rounded out the top five.

The drivers of the Renegade Division never fail to put on an exciting show, and this night was no exception. 2024 champion Shawn Duquette launched from outside the front row and captured the lead from pole sitter Tyler Irwin off of turn two on the opening lap. Duquette had to overcome a couple of restarts but led the event from flag to flag with all of the tight battling taking place behind him. Duquette had fashioned a commanding lead over second-place Tylor Terry, but the caution came out with two laps to go. On the restart, Brad Bushey seized second and began to pressure Duquette. Billy Thwaits muscled his way around Terry and Bushey, coming to the white flag. Thwaits got underneath Duquette off turn four, but Duquette won the drag race to the finish line for his first win of the season. Thwaits was second, Bushey third, Tylor Terry fourth, and Nathaniel Guay fifth.

In the mini stock 15-lap feature, Jeremiah King won a duel with Joe Warren and fought off a hard charge from Brandon Osher to pull out the victory. King led the first circuit, but Warren captured the point on lap two. After a lap four restart, King worked his way back around Warren to reclaim the top spot. Warren continued to hound King while Osher attempted to force himself into the fray. Fluid on the racing surface led to an extended caution period. With the race reaching the 15-minute time limit, race control informed drivers that the next yellow would end it. One lap later, the caution flew, and King nabbed the victory. Warren came under caution in second. Osher, Kyle Botala, and Nick Harndon rounded out the top five.

The action continues next Thursday night for one of the marquee events of 2026 when the DirtCar 358 Modified Series invades Airborne Park for the “Battle of Plattsburgh.” 75 laps, $5,000 to win. The J&S Sportsman will race 30 laps for $1,500. The Renegades, Mini Stocks, and Limited Sportsman will also be on the card. Grandstand gates open at 5:30 p.m. Hot Laps at 6:15 p.m. Racing at 7 p.m. Grandstand admission is $25. Pit admission is $45. Kids 12 and under are free.

 

 

 

Official Results-” Thursday Night Thunder” A-Verdi Storage Night

 

Thursday, May 7th

 

DirtCar 358 Modified Feature (30 laps)

 

Pos. (Start)   Driver                        Hometown

 

1. (1)            Carey Terrance       Akwesasne, Ny

2. (5)            Felix Roy                Napierville, QC       

3. (2)            Mike Mahaney        Elizabethtown, NY  

4. (3)            Dany Gagne          Mercier, QC 

5. (8)            Tim Fuller                Watertown, NY

6. (10)          Chris Raabe            Alexandria, ON

7. (6)            Lance Willix             Theresa, NY

8. (14)          Jordan McCreadie   Watertown, NY      

9. (9)            Jordan Fornwalt      Bradford, VT

10. (16)        Dave Camara          Poultney, VT

11. (12)        Mario Clair              Drummondville, QC

12. (21)        Tanner Siemons      Orford, NH  

13. (13)        Michael Parent        Granby, QC 

14. (11)        Dylan Madsen         Spencertown, NY   

15. (19)        Thomas Cook         Hogansburg, NY

16. (18)        Dale Gonyo Jr         Chazy, NY   

17. (15)        RJ Tresidder          Edwards, NY

18. (7)          George Foley          Vermontville, NY    

19. (22)        Tommy Jock Jr       Akwesasne, NY      

20. (17)        Greg Atkins             Ausable Forks, NY 

21. (24)        Johnny Chesnut      Peru, NY      

22. (4)          Preston Forbes       Potsdam, NY -

23. (20)        Matt Woodruff         Bloomingdale, NY  

24. (23)        Adam Pierson         East Corinth, VT

 

J&S Steel Sportsman Feature (25 laps)

 

Pos. (Start)  Driver                        Hometown

 

1. (2)           Shane Pecore           Cornwall, ON

2. (3)           Joey Scarborough     Brandon, VT

3. (4)           Cory Castell              Fort Covington, NY 

4. (1)           Codie Aubin              Plattsburgh, NY      

5. (12)         Nick Heywood           Plattsburgh, NY      

6. (6)          Travis Bruno              Morrisonville, NY    

7. (8)          Evan Roberts            Fletcher, VT 

8. (5)          Jamy Begor               Mooers Forks, NY  

9. (7)          Keith Pelkey              Clintonville, NY       

10. (15)      Michael Wright           Alburgh, VT  

11. (10)      Tanner Forbes           Jay, NY        

12. (9)        Lonnie Rivers             Plattsburgh, NY      

13. (11)      Vince Quenneville      Brandon, VT

14. (14)      Jason McClatchie       Plattsburgh, NY      

15. (17)      Caleb Durgan            Morrisonville, NY    

16. (16)      Bucko Branham         Plattsburgh, NY      

17. (18)      Max Dolliver                Londonderry, NH    

18. (13)      Christopher Cordeau  Magog, QC  

19. (21)      Dylan Rabtoy             Swanton, VT

20. (19)      Billy Cook                  Hogansburg, NY

 

Rain Pro of Vermont Limited Sportsman Feature (20 laps)

 

Pos. (Start)  Driver                          Hometown

 

1        2        David Johnson          Fairfax, VT

2        1        Gary English             Salisbury, VT       

3        7        Brogan Roberts         Fletcher, VT

4        3        Joshua Patterson      Milton, VT  

5        4        Lea-Jeanne Lauziere St-Cyrille-de-Wendover, QC

6        8        Cody Gregoropoulos Corinth, VT 

7        9        Michael Danforth       Corinth, VT

8        13      Cody O’Brien            Peru, NY    

9        11      Adam Lafountain       Starksboro, VT

10      6        Kobe Hernandez       Chazy, NY 

11      12       Sarah-Ann Lauziere   St-Cyrille-de-Wendover, QC      

12      14      Parker Dermody        Peru, NY    

13      16      Antony Boissonneault Ste-cecile De Milton, QC

14      5        Stephen Bushey          Brushton, NY      

15      10      Dereck Allard             St-Guillaume, QC

 

Renegades Feature (20 laps)

 

Pos. (Start)  Driver                        Hometown

 

1. (2)           Shawn Duquette       Morrisonville, NY    

2. (4)            Bill Thwaits              Plattsburgh, NY      

3. (5)             Brad Bushey           Fairfax, VT   

4. (4)            Tylor Terry              Mooers, NY  

5. (8)             Nathaniel Guay       Mooers, NY  

6. (1)             Tyler Irwin              Peru, NY      

7. (7)             Shawn Fountain      Plattsburgh, NY      

8. (6)             Josh Terry              Essex, NY    

9. (9)             Rick Doner             Clintonville, NY       

10. (10)        Tim Wilcox              Saranac, NY

11. (11)        Tony Salerno          Mineville, NY

12. (12)        Konnor Joyal           Ausable Forks, NY

 

Mini Stock Feature (15 laps)

 

Pos. (Start)   Driver                        Hometown

 

1. (2)           Jeremiah King           Peru, NY      

2. (4)           Joe Warren              Plattsburgh, NY      

3. (8)          Brandon Osher          Peru, NY      

4. (1)          Kyle Botala                Grand Isle, VT        

5. (6)          Nick Harnden             Cadyville, NY         

6. (13)         Jacob Fountain          Dannemora, NY     

7. (7)          Jp Corrow                  Peru, NY       -

8. (5)          Kyle Hart                   Cadyille, NY 

9. (10)        Ken Tourville              Grand Isle, VT        

10.(9)        Joshua Blake              Champlain, NY       

11. (11)     Josh Laporte                         -

12. (19)     Haiden Bordeau          Dannemora, NY     

13. (14)      Jamie Whitney Jr       Plattsburgh, NY      

14. (15)       Caleb Tourville                    South Alburgh, VT  

15. (17)       Tyler Warren            Plattsburgh, NY      

16. (23)       Leonard Snide          Plattsburgh, NY      

17. (12)       Randy Martin            Keeseville, NY        

18. (20)       Ernest Parent            Plattsburgh, NY

19. (25)       Thomas Parent         Plattsburgh, NY      

20. (3)          Glenn Engstrom        Peru, NY      

21. (16)       Tyler Bell                   Peru, NY

22. (21)       Jailynn Doner            Keesville, NY

23. (22)        Travis Reyell            Plattsburgh, NY      

24. (18)        Speedy Bresette      Plattsburgh, NY      

25. (24)        Austyn Parent          Plattsburgh, NY


Pour lire le reste / Read more...

Posted by Marc Patrick Roy at 13.5.26 0 comments

2026-05-11

Working on the Raceday Checklist During the Peterborough Speedway Practice

Working on the Raceday Checklist During the Peterborough Speedway Practice
By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

With the 2026 season opener only days away, Peterborough Speedway racers had the chance to run some practice laps Saturday, May 9th before the year’s initial green flag. Home track favourites and racers from selected touring groups took to the venue known for Making Memories for Life to log some track time and put their equipment to the test.
While some cars rolled through the pit gate and made the transition from the staging area to the track in race-ready condition, others had blank body panels and were waiting for graphic packages and sponsorship logos to be applied. Whether experienced drivers or rookie runners, the return of racecars to Central Ontario was a welcome sight after a winter season that seemed like it would never end.
Crisp, spring weather conditions greeted racers, fans, friends and track officials for a fresh taste of trackside action. With a few signs of rust producing a few casual spins, the day’s only serious incident came when a flat time spoiled a Late Model debut by last year’s Ontario Legend Car Series champion Dawson Drimmie. Wheeling an unmarked ride from Mark Gordon’s team, the car made contact with the wall and towed back to the pit area.
Crowd favourite Stacy Switzer was on hand with a new look for her No. 37 Renegade Truck ride. Last season’s popular ‘Tonka’ truck also saw some track time with new driver Riley Nicholson, fresh colours and No. 79. 2025 Bone Stock rookie of the year Jacob Stavropolous showed up with a new colour scheme on his No. 03 equipment. This year’s design is modelled after the NASCAR Cup Series ride of Ryan Blaney.
The most anticipated motorsports event in Cottage Country is just days away. New Country KX 105 presents the 2026 Season Opener – with free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 16th. Pit gates will open at noon, with the main grandstands unlocked at 3:00 and racing at 5:00. Track officials have added the security of a Sunday, May 17th rain date in case of inclement weather. Scheduled times will remain the same.
Throughout the season, find schedule details, news and information at www.peterboroughspeedway.com or on the track’s social media pages and platforms.

Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

Stacy Switzer (No. 37) and Riley Nicholson (No. 79) run some Trent Lakes Complete Plumbing Renegade Truck laps during the Saturday, May 9th practice at Peterborough Speedway.

SwitchTire Mini Stock runners Cory Horne (No. 09) and Cameron McGlashan (No. 83) log laps during the Open Practice/Media Day – Saturday, May 9th – at Peterborough Speedway.

Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

IMG_0476 (1).JPG
IMG_0491 (1).JPG


Pour lire le reste / Read more...

Posted by Marc Patrick Roy at 11.5.26 0 comments

2026-04-25

Airborne Park Launches 72nd Season This Sunday with Leon Gonyo Memorial

Messenger_creation_91DA7DF9-F2BB-4DFD-AADF-29E6A1E70E9C (1) (1).jpeg
Plattsburgh, NY — Airborne Park Speedway roars back to life this Sunday as the historic track opens its 72nd racing season with a special event honoring one of the North Country’s own — the Leon Gonyo Memorial for 358 Modifieds.

The 40-lap feature will pay $4,000 to win and is expected to draw top competitors from across the region for one of the most competitive races of the early season.

In addition to the headline event, a full card of racing will include Sportsman, Limited Sportsman, Renegades, Mini Stocks, and Crown Vics.

“This is always one of the most exciting days of the year,” said track promoter Mike Bruno. “Opening day brings a special energy, and adding the Leon Gonyo Memorial makes it even more meaningful. We’re ready to kick off another great season.”

Airborne Park Speedway continues its long-standing tradition of providing exciting, family-friendly racing while honoring the history and individuals who have helped shape the sport in the North Country. Fans are encouraged to arrive early and be part of opening day as a new season begins at Airborne Park Speedway.

Event Details:
72nd Season Opener + Leon Gonyo Memorial
Sunday
Pit Gates Open: 10:00 AM
Grandstand Gates Open: 12:30 PM
Racing Starts: 2:00 PM
Admission:
Pit Fees – Members: $30 | Non-Members: $40
Grandstand Admission: $20
Kids 12 & Under: Free

Airborne Park Speedway is located at 70 Broderick Road in Plattsburgh, New York, just two miles from exit 36 off interstate 87. If you can’t join us in person, you can always catch the races live on www.dirttrackdigest.tv. For more information, visit us online at Airborne Park Speedway on Facebook, or at www.AirborneParkSpeedwayNY.com. We also encourage you to download the MyRacePass app for news, points, results, fantasy racing picks and live timing and scoring. 


Pour lire le reste / Read more...

Posted by Marc Patrick Roy at 25.4.26 0 comments

GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods Release 2026 Schedule

IMG_9018 (1) (1).JPG

GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods Release 2026 Schedule
By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media
A new season of full fendered action is just around the corner and group officials have announced the 2026 GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods event schedule.
“We’ve just come off an exciting year for our teams as they transitioned from the open-wheeled cars to our new breed of racing equipment,” said a SportsMods spokesperson. “Our opening night last year was highlighted by a thrilling head-to-head battle between John Baker Jr. and Chad Strawn that was settled by a margin of mere inches at the checkered flag, with JBJ taking the race win.”
This year’s line-up will feature the customary 8 dates, shared between Peterborough and Flamboro Speedways, kicking off Saturday, May 23rd at the popular Central Ontario oval in the heart of Cottage Country and concluding with the Championship Showdown during the Autumn Colours Classic. The group’s racers and teams are looking forward to the green flag that gets the next campaign underway.
Along with the new schedule announcement, the GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods team line-up will welcome some fresh faces and familiar names for the 2026 calendar. Several rookie of the year hopefuls will be looking to make their initial starts when the group hits the track for the new season.
2026 GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods schedule
Saturday, May 23rd                  Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, June 6th                   Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, June 27th                 Flamboro Speedway
Saturday, July 18th                  Peterborough Speedway
                                                  Bill Pickford Memorial
Saturday, August 1st               Flamboro Speedway
Saturday, August 15th             Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, August 29th             Peterborough Speedway
                                                  Robert Maebrae Memorial Classic
Friday, October 9th                  Peterborough Speedway
                                                  Autumn Colours Classic
                                                  Championship Showdown
Group officials would like to thank track owners and officials at Peterborough and Flamboro Speedways for hosting this year’s events. Bourque Transmission, Thinkpath Design, TNT Performance Products and Clarke Motorsports Communications will once again support the GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods season.
Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media
Fan favourite John Baker Jr. made history by clinching the inaugural GEN-3 Electrical OMRS SportsMods championship. The group will kick-off its new schedule Saturday, May 23rd at Peterborough Speedway.
Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media


Pour lire le reste / Read more...

Posted by Marc Patrick Roy at 25.4.26 0 comments

​Clayton Reed is Ready for the 2026 Peterborough Speedway Opener

Clayton Reed is Ready for the 2026 Peterborough Speedway Opener
By Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media
IMG_8992 (copy).JPG

In just a few weeks, the thrills of speed and horsepower will return to Central Ontario. New Country KX 105 presents the 2026 Season Opener – featuring free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 16th at Peterborough Speedway.
After finishing 3rd in the 2025-point standings, Clayton Reed is excited to kick-off his 3rd season in the home track’s Super Stock field. The 44-year-old 2nd generation racer – who makes the regular tow from Sebright, Ontario – is looking to build on a season that saw him score his first career feature win on the last night of the year and had him named Most Sportsmanlike Driver.

“I’ve never been the type of racer who sets goals before the start of the year, but this might be a good time to start,” said Clayton Reed. “We’ve had some consistent runs during the first couple of years and I’m feeling really comfortable in the car. This could be our season to be in the heart of the championship fight.”
Reed is thankful to Cathy Stewart, Darren Fairchild, Chris Langstaff, Allan Inglis, Robbie Sikes and Luke Connick, the team that works hard behind the scenes and keeps the No. 21R machine on the track. Heading into the season’s first green flag, the team is happy to welcome new sponsors Master Lube Rust Check – Orillia, Orillia Chevrolet, Millwood Logistics and Clarke Motorsports Communications to the program that will see returning backers Z3 Developments Inc., Lloyd’s Haulage, SCN Contracting, Double S Excavating and Grading, Not Just Dogs, Shepherd Custom Docks, Einarson Trucking and Water Depot Orillia support the weekly race line-up.

Beginning with the Saturday, May 16th lid-lifter, Super Stock runners will have 10 dates on this year’s Peterborough Speedway regular season calendar. The showcase will come Saturday, June 13th during the 50-lap Dayco Super Stock headliner. For the first time in the event’s history, the show will see registered home track racers earn points toward the annual track championship.
It is never too early to start thinking about the 33rd annual edition of the B&G Towing and Recovery Autumn Colours Classic. This year’s running of the Super Bowl of Stock Car Racing takes the green flag Friday, October 9th and features 3 full days of racing excitement during the Thanksgiving Weekend.
For the latest track news and complete details on the upcoming 2026 schedule, check www.peterboroughspeedway.com and the venue’s social media pages and platforms.
Photo attachment: Jim Clarke – Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media
With the first green flag less than a month away, Clayton Reed (No. 21R) is looking forward to the launch of the 2026 schedule at Peterborough Speedway.
Prepared by: Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media
                      clarkemotorsports@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/clarkemotorsports


Pour lire le reste / Read more...

Posted by Marc Patrick Roy at 25.4.26 0 comments

NASCAR Names Steve O’Donnell as Chief Executive Officer; Ben Kennedy as Chief Operating Officer

NASCAR Names Steve O’Donnell as Chief Executive Officer; Ben Kennedy as Chief Operating Officer

Jim France Remains Chairman with Lesa France Kennedy Continuing as Executive Vice Chair

 

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (April 25, 2026) – NASCAR today announced pivotal leadership changes with its Board of Directors naming Steve O’Donnell as Chief Executive Officer and Ben Kennedy as Chief Operating Officer, positioning the sport for its next phase of growth and innovation. These planned transitions follow a period of sustained momentum and business strength for NASCAR, driven by multi-year media rights agreements, long-term charter extensions and robust partner relationships.

 

Effective immediately, O’Donnell becomes the first non-France family member to serve as CEO in NASCAR’s 78-year history. He assumes all strategic and operational leadership for NASCAR, its affiliated racing series and businesses. Kennedy, in his expanded role as Chief Operating Officer, will oversee several core business functions, including the addition of NASCAR’s competition department, alongside his current leadership of track and event operations, racing innovation, hospitality, and venue strategy. Jim France, who served as NASCAR Chairman and CEO since 2018 where he oversaw nearly a decade of innovation and steady growth, will remain as Chairman of NASCAR’s Board of Directors. Lesa France Kennedy also continues as Executive Vice Chair and NASCAR’s Board of Directors remains unchanged.

 

“I am incredibly proud of the strength and stability we’ve achieved across the sport, which gives me tremendous confidence in our plan to transition leadership to Steve as NASCAR’s next CEO and Ben as COO,” said NASCAR Chairman Jim France. “Together, they represent the future of the sport, and along with our world-class executive team and race team partners in the garage, they will guide NASCAR into its exciting next era.”

 

As CEO, O’Donnell will focus on advancing NASCAR’s vision as one of the world’s premier sports and entertainment brands. Previously serving as NASCAR’s sixth President, O’Donnell is one of the sport’s longest tenured and respected executives with more than 30 years of service across competition, operations, marketing and business functions – from grassroots racing through the NASCAR Cup Series. He will also lead the development and execution of multi year strategic plans, financial and performance benchmarks, succession planning, as well as NASCAR’s next media rights and evolving content distribution strategies.

 

“It is an honor to step into the role of CEO working alongside Ben and our leadership team at such an important time for our sport,” said NASCAR Chief Executive Officer Steve O’Donnell. “I have devoted nearly my entire l career to NASCAR, this garage and our fans, guided by the France family’s commitment to deliver the best racing in the world. I am grateful and energized to continue to collaborate with our colleagues across our sport, while listening to our race fans to realize that vision each and every week.”

 

With Ben Kennedy’s elevation to NASCAR’s Chief Operating Officer, he will oversee a range of business- and competition-critical functions, including the addition of Competition led by John Probst. Probst will report to Kennedy, who began his NASCAR career on the Competition team as General Manager of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Kennedy will also continue to oversee the creation of NASCAR’s highly anticipated annual schedule, a key driver of marquee events that expand NASCAR’s reach and introduce the sport to new audiences while honoring its most beloved racing traditions that have delivered many iconic sports moments.

 

Notes to the editor

 

About Jim France

Jim France is Chairman of NASCAR after serving as its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer since August 2018.

 

France grew up in the early years of stock car racing, living and learning every detail of the sport from his own experiences, and from his father Bill France Sr., the founder and first president of NASCAR. He also received guidance and direction from his mother, Anne B. France, and older brother Bill Jr., NASCAR’s former president, chairman and CEO.

 

Joining ISC in 1959, France worked in all phases of operations in his early years with the company.

 

He was elected to the International Speedway Corporation (ISC) board in 1970 and served as the company’s secretary, assistant treasurer, vice president, chief operating officer, executive vice president, president and chairman.

 

France has been involved in motorsports most of his life. In addition to stock cars, he has also been a strong supporter of both sports car and motorcycle racing in the United States, evident by his professional involvement in those sports. In 1999, he founded GRAND-AM Road Racing; in 2012, he was the driving force behind the merger of GRAND-AM and the American Le Mans Series, which began operation as one entity in 2014 in what is now known as the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA).

 

He served as starter for the U.S. Motorcycle Grand Prix in the late 1960s, raced on dirt tracks for nearly five years and has been a member of the American Motorcyclist Association for almost 26 years. In addition, France has raced karts on both dirt and asphalt.

 

France has served as a board member for ACCUS (Automobile Competition Committee of the United States). France was on active duty in the U.S. Army from 1969-1970, serving in Vietnam.

 

France was born and raised in Daytona Beach, Fla., where he currently resides. He graduated from local Seabreeze High School and attended Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Fla., earning a business degree in 1968.

 

About Steve O’Donnell

Steve O’Donnell was appointed CEO of NASCAR in April 2026 after being named President in March of 2025. O’Donnell is only the fifth CEO in NASCAR’s 78-year history and the first non-France Family member to hold the position since the organization’s founding 1948. Based in Daytona Beach, Fla., O’Donnell is responsible for the day-to-day leadership of all NASCAR and IMSA Series, including all NASCAR commercial, media and track operations, in addition to its four international series and multiple regional and grassroots properties.

 

Prior to being appointed President, O’Donnell most recently held the role of Chief Operating Officer. In that role, he oversaw multiple departments within the company related to Competition with an emphasis on positioning NASCAR and its state-of-the-art Research & Development Center as a leader in innovation, technology and product relevance. In addition, he also led all NASCAR-owned track properties, track presidents and respective events, as well as International development, medical, security, membership and registration areas of the business. 

 

Under his purview, O’Donnell has helped elevate the fan event experience at NASCAR’s race tracks, which include some of the world’s top venues such as Daytona International Speedway.

 

O’Donnell has directed or guided vital innovative advancements, including the introduction of the Gen-6 NASCAR Cup Series race car, the current Next Gen car (7th generation) and and the implementation of the Chase playoff format for all three of NASCAR’s national series.

 

He is also a member of the company’s Executive Council and holds positions on the NASCAR Hall of Fame nominating committee and voting panel.

 

A true example of rising through the ranks, O’Donnell has worked in various areas in the company since joining NASCAR in 1996 as a marketing services representative. After being promoted to manage that group – including work on NASCAR’s 50th Anniversary project – he was elevated to Director of Series Marketing. From there, he moved to Competition as Managing Director of Events and Operations to head the All-American Series and Touring Series before being promoted to Vice President of Racing Operations in charge of the national series. In 2008, he was named to Sports Business Journal’s prestigious “Forty Under 40” list.

 

About Ben Kennedy

Ben Kennedy is the Chief Operating Officer for NASCAR. Prior to that he served as Chief Events & Venues Officer overseeing strategic initiatives, including all of NASCAR’s owned facilities, future innovation for the sport’s continued growth, and the annual development of NASCAR’s national series race schedules. 

 

Kennedy was the architect behind the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series race schedule, widely acknowledged as the most dynamic new schedule the sport has seen in decades. Since then, he has led efforts to bring NASCAR racing to city centers, including the Busch Light Clash at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum, the first-ever Chicago Street Race, the Cup Series first-ever international race (Mexico City) and this year’s San Diego Steet Race at Naval Base Coronado – another first for the sport.

 

Previously, Kennedy served as Senior Vice President of Racing Development and Strategy, and prior to that, Vice President, Racing Operations where he led domestic and international operations for the auto racing sanctioning body. In 2018, Kennedy served as General Manager of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series where he provided oversight across multiple disciplines specific to the series, including competition, broadcasting, marketing and communications. 

 

Kennedy, the great-grandson of NASCAR founder Bill France Sr., and son of NASCAR Executive Vice Chair Lesa France Kennedy, is a fourth-generation leader from the NASCAR-founding France family. He brings experience to the organization from previous roles as both a driver and team owner.

 

Kennedy began his racing career in 2009 behind the wheel of a four-horsepower quarter midget at a small track in New Smyrna Beach, Fla. Most recently, he raced in what is now the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for Richard Childress Racing and GMS Racing. Kennedy also competed fulltime in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series from 2014-2016, earning his first win and series playoff berth in 2016.

 

Enjoying success at the touring series level, Kennedy etched his name in the record books in 2012, when he won the first oval race in NASCAR Whelen Euro Series history at Tours Speedway, just outside of Paris, France.

 

In 2023, Kennedy was honored as a Sports Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” and was inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame with the Award of Distinction for his work in bringing the unprecedented Chicago Street Race to the city.

 

Kennedy received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and is currently a team owner in the ARCA Menards Series. He resides in Florida and is based out of both the Daytona Beach and uptown Charlotte offices.

 

###

 

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 15 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Local Racing Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.

 

Contact:

Eric Ryan

NASCAR Communications


Pour lire le reste / Read more...

Posted by Marc Patrick Roy at 25.4.26 0 comments

2026-04-23

Kubota Shifts into High Gear with Multi-Year NASCAR Partnership

Uploaded Image

 

Kubota Shifts into High Gear with Multi-Year NASCAR Partnership

 

Partnership Unites Two Organizations Connected to Communities Across America, with Official Designations Across Multiple Equipment Categories and Sponsorship of San Diego Race Weekend

 

DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. (April 23, 2026) – Kubota Tractor Corporation and NASCAR® today announced a new multi-year partnership beginning with the 2026 NASCAR season. The partnership establishes Kubota as an Official Partner of NASCAR, including the Official Tractor of NASCAR, Official Construction Equipment Partner of NASCAR, Official Compact Equipment Partner of NASCAR and Official Utility Vehicle of NASCAR. Kubota will also serve as the official partner in the same categories for the upcoming NASCAR San Diego Weekend.

 

“We’re proud to further align the Kubota brand with one of the most recognized sports organizations in the country, building on the successes of our sponsorship with Trackhouse Racing and Ross Chastain,” said Alex Woods, President, Kubota Tractor Corporation. “Kubota equipment is built for customers who demand quality, durability and high productivity. NASCAR is built on engineering excellence, speed, and sustained high performance under pressure. Together, we represent two organizations that are part of the fabric of American life, connected by hardworking people and loyal communities that rely on equipment purpose-built for the job – on or off the racetrack.”

 

As part of the agreement, Kubota equipment will be integrated into NASCAR track operations at select venues, supporting track preparation and facility needs. The partnership provides visible, real-world applications that reinforce Kubota’s reputation for durability and reliability in demanding environments.

 

“Kubota’s commitment to the people who power our communities — from farmers and builders to the men and women who have served our country — aligns seamlessly with NASCAR’s fan base and values,” said Craig Stimmel, NASCAR SVP and Chief Commercial Officer. “Including a presence at the NASCAR San Diego Weekend adds even greater meaning, as we celebrate veterans in a setting that reflects service, resilience and pride. From integrating Kubota equipment into our operations to creating impactful moments for fans and veteran honorees alike, this collaboration is built on shared purpose and real-world performance.”

 

Kubota has maintained a presence in NASCAR through its partnership with Trackhouse Racing since 2022 and continues to build on that involvement through this new multi-year agreement.

 

Kubota to Sponsor NASCAR San Diego Weekend and Honor Veterans

As part of the agreement, Kubota will sponsor NASCAR San Diego Weekend presented by Anduril at Naval Base Coronado from June 19–21 and will play an integrated role throughout the weekend, serving as the Official Tractor, Construction Equipment, Compact Equipment, and Utility Vehicle partner for NASCAR San Diego Race Weekend.

 

Kubota’s presence during the weekend will also highlight the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting U.S. military veterans. As part of the weekend’s activities, Kubota will host a special ceremony prior to the Sunday NASCAR Cup Series race to recognize the five recipients of its 2026 Geared to Give program. During the ceremony, the farmer veterans will be presented with the keys to new Kubota equipment in front of race attendees.

 

Each recipient and one guest will attend the race weekend as Kubota’s invited guests, which will include access to Kubota’s suite to watch the race and a meet and greet with Ross Chastain and the Trackhouse Racing team.

 

Since 2015, Kubota has partnered with the Farmer Veteran Coalition on a multi-million-dollar program that includes veteran grants, organizational support and equipment to help farmer veterans transition into careers in agriculture. Kubota also supports the Boot Campaign, a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of military veterans and their families.

 

Kubota equipment will also be displayed in the fan zone throughout the weekend, where fans can learn more about the company’s veteran-focused initiatives, including Geared to Give and its partnership with Boot Campaign.

 

Over the course of the partnership, Kubota will collaborate with NASCAR to engage fans at tracks nationwide and across digital and broadcast platforms, while continuing to invest in American communities in support of the veterans, farmers, builders, landscapers and landowners who rely on Kubota equipment every day.

 

###

 

 

About Kubota Tractor Corporation

Kubota Tractor Corporation, Grapevine, Texas, is the U.S. marketer and distributor of Kubota-engineered and manufactured machinery and equipment, including a complete line of tractors of up to 200 Gross hp, performance-matched implements, compact construction equipment, consumer lawn and garden equipment, hay tools, commercial turf products and utility vehicles. For product literature or dealer locations, contact: Kubota Tractor Corporation, 1000 Kubota Drive, Grapevine, TX 76051, (888) 4-KUBOTA [(888) 458-2682], Ext. 900, or visit KubotaUSA.com.

 

 

About NASCAR

The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Local Racing Series Powered by O’Reilly Auto Parts). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.

 

For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook. 

 

 

About Farmer Veteran Coalition

Based in Waco, Texas, Farmer Veteran Coalition’s mission is to assist service members and Veterans transitioning out of military service into careers in the agriculture sector or assist them with starting their own farms or ranches. Established in 2009, FVC’s in-house programs include the Farmer Veteran Coalition Fellowship Fund small grant program, the nationally recognized Homegrown By Heroes label for Veteran-grown products, and national and regional conferences. As the nation’s largest nonprofit assisting veterans and active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces embark on careers in agriculture, FVC works to develop a new generation of farmers and food leaders. This is done through expanding viable employment and career opportunities with support and collaboration of the farming and military communities. For more information, visit www.farmvetco.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @FarmerVeteranCoalition and on YouTube at

https://www.youtube.com/@farmvetcoalition/videos.

 

 

About Boot Campaign

Established in 2009, Boot Campaign’s mission is to unite Americans to honor and restore the lives of Veterans and military families through individualized, life-improving care. Accredited by the Better Business Bureau and with a Platinum rating from Candid and Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, on average 87% of funds raised by Boot Campaign go directly to its mission-driven programs. To learn more, visit www.bootcampaign.org and follow the organization on Facebook, X or Instagram using the handle @bootcampaign. 

 

 

Contacts

NASCAR

Matt Nordby

NASCAR Communications  

mnordby@nascar.com


Pour lire le reste / Read more...

Posted by Marc Patrick Roy at 23.4.26 0 comments

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)