NASCAR: Beyond All Reason

[Spitfire]

DJ Jake Booty & Taylor Swift Collab on Racing-Themed Track ‘Checkered Flag Warrior’
In an unexpected crossover between music and motorsports, DJ Jake Booty and Taylor Swift are teaming up to produce a brand-new track titled "Checkered Flag Warrior." The song, which will be sung by Booty with production and writing contributions from Swift, is set to be a high-energy anthem blending EDM and pop-rock influences.

About the Song
Genre: EDM / Pop-Rock Hybrid
Vocals: DJ Jake Booty
Lyrics & Production: Taylor Swift
Theme: Inspired by the grit, determination, and intensity of motorsports, ‘Checkered Flag Warrior’ will serve as a pump-up anthem for both race fans and competitors.

CHECKERED FLAG WARRIOR SONG​

 

[Spitfire]

2021 Rolex 24 at Daytona – Race Recap

The 2021 Rolex 24 at Daytona delivered another thrilling chapter in endurance racing history, with dramatic battles across all classes, unpredictable weather changes, and a grueling test of stamina for both drivers and machines.

Brandon Blaze's IMSA Debut – A True Endurance Test
Making his first-ever start in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Brandon Blaze joined the #23 Heart of Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3 alongside Roman De Angelis (Canada), Ross Gunn (UK), and Ian James (UK) in the ultra-competitive GTD (GT Daytona) class. The team showed impressive pace throughout the event, proving to be a dark horse in the field.

Strong Start for the #23 Team
As the green flag dropped, Ross Gunn started the race with a steady approach, keeping the car out of early trouble while matching the pace of the front-running GTD entries. By the time Blaze took the wheel for his first stint, the team was running solidly inside the top 10 in class.

Blaze, in his first-ever endurance racing appearance, held his own against seasoned sports car drivers, adapting quickly to the unique challenges of multi-class racing. Navigating through faster prototypes while defending against GTD competitors, he impressed with his consistency and clean execution in traffic.

Overnight Challenges – Rain and Cautions Mix Up the Field
As darkness fell over Daytona International Speedway, rain showers created unpredictable track conditions, leading to multiple caution periods. Ian James and Roman De Angelis took turns at the wheel, keeping the car in contention despite tricky wet-to-dry track changes.

During the early morning hours, Blaze returned to the car and delivered a smooth, composed double stint, avoiding incidents while maintaining the team’s top-10 position in GTD. Despite fatigue setting in, he managed to improve his lap times as the track continued to evolve.

Final Hours – Pushing to the Finish
With just three hours to go, the Heart of Racing team made their final driver rotation, with Ross Gunn taking the wheel for the sprint to the checkered flag. In a dramatic finish, the top six GTD teams battled nose-to-tail, with intense position swapping in the closing laps.

Blaze and his teammates ultimately brought the #23 Aston Martin home in 7th place in the GTD class, capping off an impressive performance for the endurance debutant.

Brandon Blaze’s Co-Drivers Reflect on His IMSA Debut at the Rolex 24
After completing his first-ever endurance race at the 2021 Rolex 24 at Daytona, Brandon Blaze earned praise from his Heart of Racing teammates for his adaptability and performance in the GTD class. Despite being a newcomer to the discipline, Blaze helped bring the #23 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 home in 7th place, completing a flawless debut in one of the most challenging races on the calendar.

Roman De Angelis (Canada)
"Brandon was impressive right from the start. He adapted quickly to the Aston Martin, which isn’t easy for someone coming from NASCAR. Endurance racing demands a different mindset—managing stints, traffic, and fuel strategy—but he handled it really well. He was smart in traffic and didn’t take unnecessary risks. For a first-timer, that’s exactly what you want."

Ross Gunn (United Kingdom)
"The biggest compliment I can give Brandon is that he didn’t drive like a rookie. He took feedback really well, managed his tires, and stayed calm under pressure. The night stints were where we really saw his potential—his lap times were consistent, and he kept us in the fight. He’s got the talent to do more endurance racing if he wants to."

Ian James (United Kingdom)
"Brandon came in with an open mind, ready to learn, and that’s what made the difference. A 24-hour race isn’t about outright speed—it’s about endurance, teamwork, and patience. He showed great composure and helped bring the car home clean. If this was his first endurance race, I can only imagine how strong he’d be with more experience."

Blaze on His First Rolex 24 Experience:
"This race was unlike anything I’ve ever done before. The way you have to pace yourself, the driver changes, the strategy—it’s a whole new world compared to sprint races in NASCAR. I’m really grateful to Roman, Ross, and Ian for helping me get up to speed so quickly. I feel like I learned a ton, and honestly, I’d love to come back and do this again. Hopefully, this won’t be my last Rolex 24."

With a solid top-10 finish in GTD, Blaze proved he can handle endurance racing. Could we see him return to IMSA for future endurance events? Only time will tell!​

 

[Spitfire]

Eldora Dirt Derby 2021: The Ultimate Tailgate Party to Kick Off the Season!

ROSSBURG, OH – 5th February 2021 – The 2021 Eldora Dirt Derby is set to be the ultimate Tailgate Party to open the new racing season, bringing fans an action-packed night of dirt racing, party vibes, and an all-new format that will test the skill and endurance of the best drivers on the circuit!

This year’s Dirt Derby will feature a 16-car field, with drivers earning their spots through a thrilling series of heat races and a last-chance qualifier. The new format ensures that only the toughest, most determined racers will get the chance to battle it out on Eldora’s legendary dirt surface in a no-holds-barred feature race.

New Format, New Challenges!
- Heat Racing: Drivers will compete in multiple heat races to set the grid, ensuring intense, wheel-to-wheel action right from the start.
- Last Chance Qualifier: Missed the cut in the heats? One final, all-or-nothing sprint will determine the last few spots on the grid.
- One Long Stage: Unlike previous years, the 2021 Eldora Dirt Derby will be one long, grueling stage—no breaks, no resets—just pure, high-intensity racing from green to checkered!

A Specially Designed Pit Lane for a Unique Event
To accommodate the dirt surface while keeping pit strategy in play, Eldora has constructed a paved pit lane just for this event. This special pit area will allow for safer and faster stops, ensuring teams can make adjustments without the chaos of working on a dirt-covered surface.

A Tailgate Party Like No Other!
The Eldora Dirt Derby has always been a fan-favorite, and this year, it’s bigger than ever. Fans can expect:
- Live music & entertainment throughout the event
- Food trucks & tailgate specials
- Fireworks display to celebrate the season opener
- Meet & greets with drivers before they hit the track

"Eldora is all about excitement, and with this new format, we’re turning up the intensity!" said track officials. "Fans are in for a show like never before, and we can’t wait to kick off the season with the ultimate dirt track showdown."

Get ready for bumpin’ fenders, dirt-slingin’ action, and a full-throttle start to the new season! The 2021 Eldora Dirt Derby promises to be one for the history books—will you be there?​

 

[Spitfire]

Eldora Speedway Tailgate Party: Part One
5th February 2021

150 laps - 0.5 mi (0.80 km)

Eldora began with the drivers being placed into three heats (qualifying races) with the top four finishers from each race advancing to the final race.

- Group 1: Bobby Rey, Todd Gilliland, Dubba Best, Derek Kraus, Brandon Blaze, Carson Hocevar, Brett Moffitt, Stewart Friesen, Jordan Anderson, Kevin Magnussen, John Hunter Nemechek.

- Group 2: Chandler Smith, Arthur D'Tea, Matt Crafton, Ben Rhodes, Johnny Sauter, Tyler Ankrum, Barbie Stellar, Logan Slayer, Austin Hill, Germain Loochhausen, Zane Smith.

- Group 3: Grant Enfinger, Austin Wayne Self, Timothy Peters, Raphael Lessard, Tanner Gray, Christian Eckes, Sheldon Creed, Tommy Bedlam, Ty Majeski, Juice Millar.

* * * * *

Group 1 Qualifying

Top Four Advancing:
1) Bobby Rey (#00, Front Row Motorsports) – Bobby Rey showed he’s ready for the competition, setting a blistering time right off the bat. His smooth and controlled laps on the dirt put him at the top of the board.

2) Stewart Friesen (#52, Halmar Friesen Racing) – A dirt track specialist, Friesen wasn’t far behind Rey. His experience really showed as he posted a solid second-place time, keeping the pressure on.

3) Todd Gilliland (#38, Front Row Motorsports) – Gilliland was in the hunt the entire session. He secured a spot in the top four with consistent runs and some quick reflexes on the dirt.

4) John Hunter Nemechek (#4, Kyle Busch Motorsports) – Nemechek, a regular on the dirt tracks, earned his place in the top four with a great run. His smooth driving style helped him secure the fourth position.

Just Missed the Cut:
-Derek Kraus (#19, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing): He came close but couldn’t quite match the pace of the top four.

- Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports): Blaze was competitive, but he didn’t have enough to crack the top four spots in this tight qualifying race.

- Carson Hocevar (#42, Niece Motorsports): A solid effort, but ultimately not fast enough to make it into the top four.

+ + +

Group 2 Qualifying:

Top Four Advancing:
1) Chandler Smith (#18, Kyle Busch Motorsports) – Chandler Smith had a fantastic performance, showing his skill on the dirt. He was able to hit all the right marks and clocked in the fastest time of the group, earning the pole for the next round.

2) Matt Crafton (#88, ThorSport Racing) – Crafton proved his versatility, putting in a solid lap that kept him near the top throughout the session. His veteran experience was evident as he secured a second-place finish.

3) (Ben Rhodes (#99, ThorSport Racing) – Rhodes showed his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His lap was strong, placing him in a well-deserved third position.

4) Barbie Stellar (#27, DGR-Crosley) – Barbie Stellar made a strong push in the qualifying session, landing in the top four. Her dirt experience shone through as she earned the final transfer spot to the next round.

Just Missed the Cut:
- Johnny Sauter (#13, ThorSport Racing): Sauter couldn’t find the speed to get into the top four and fell just short.

- Tyler Ankrum (#26, DGR-Crosley): Ankrum was competitive but wasn’t able to find the extra gear needed to advance.

- Logan Slayer (#40, DGR-Crosley): Despite a solid run, Slayer didn’t quite have the pace to make it into the top four.

+ + +

Group 3 Qualifying

Top Four Advancing
1) Grant Enfinger (#71, Team Red Bull) – Enfinger put on a dominant performance, showing off his dirt skills with a smooth, controlled lap that earned him the top spot in the group. His consistency and precision made him stand out.

2) Sheldon Creed (#2, GMS Racing) – Creed showed why he’s considered one of the top drivers on dirt tracks. His fast lap and solid driving helped him secure second place in Group 3.

3) Ty Majeski (#23, GMS Racing) – Majeski made his mark with a strong, aggressive run that earned him third place. He stayed close to Creed’s pace and locked in a spot for the next round.

4) Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske) – Millar, in his debut with Team Penske, impressed with a steady, fast lap that placed him in fourth. His experience on dirt tracks helped him secure the final transfer position.

Just Missed the Cut:
- Raphael Lessard (#25, Rackley W.A.R.): Lessard showed potential but couldn’t quite match the pace of the top four and just fell short.

- Tanner Gray (#02, Young’s Motorsports): Gray wasn’t far off, but his lap wasn’t fast enough to move on to the next round.

- Christian Eckes (#12, Young’s Motorsports): Eckes had a solid run, but it wasn’t enough to advance in this competitive group.


+ + +

With the top 12 already qualified, it's time for the Last Chance Race! All the drivers who didn’t make it through qualifying will battle it out for the final four spots in the next round. Here's the lineup for the Last Chance Race:

- Derek Kraus (#19, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing)
- Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports)
- Carson Hocevar (#42, Niece Motorsports)
- Brett Moffitt (#45, Niece Motorsports)
- Jordan Anderson (#3, Jordan Anderson Racing)
- Kevin Magnussen (#8, Kyle Busch Motorsports)
- John Hunter Nemechek (#4, Kyle Busch Motorsports)
- Arthur D'Tea (#51, ThorSport Racing)
- Johnny Sauter (#13, ThorSport Racing)
- Logan Slayer (#40, DGR-Crosley)
- Tyler Ankrum (#26, DGR-Crosley)
- Tanner Gray (#02, Young’s Motorsports)
- Christian Eckes (#12, Young’s Motorsports)
- Raphael Lessard (#25, Rackley W.A.R.)
-Tommy Bedlam (#77, GMS Racing)


Last Chance Race Results (top four drivers advance)

1) Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports) – Blaze showed his speed and determination, taking the victory in this intense Last Chance Race. His smooth handling and tactical moves helped him cross the line first.

2) John Hunter Nemechek (#4, Kyle Busch Motorsports) – Nemechek fought hard and secured second place, showing that he’s not to be underestimated, even after a tough qualifying round.

3) Tommy Bedlam (#77, GMS Racing) – Bedlam had a strong performance, driving hard to take third and keep himself in the fight for the next round.
4) Derek Kraus (#19, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing) – Kraus was consistent and managed to finish in the fourth and final transfer spot, securing his place in the next round.

* * * *

Qualified Drivers:
Bobby Rey (#00, Front Row Motorsports) – Group 1
Stewart Friesen (#52, Halmar Friesen Racing) – Group 1
Todd Gilliland (#38, Front Row Motorsports) – Group 1
John Hunter Nemechek (#4, Kyle Busch Motorsports) – Group 1
Chandler Smith (#18, Kyle Busch Motorsports) – Group 2
Matt Crafton (#88, ThorSport Racing) – Group 2
Ben Rhodes (#99, ThorSport Racing) – Group 2
Barbie Stellar (#27, DGR-Crosley) – Group 2
Grant Enfinger (#71, Team Red Bull) – Group 3
Sheldon Creed (#2, GMS Racing) – Group 3
Ty Majeski (#23, GMS Racing) – Group 3
Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske) – Group 3
Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports) – Last Chance Race
John Hunter Nemechek (#4, Kyle Busch Motorsports) – Last Chance Race
Tommy Bedlam (#77, GMS Racing) – Last Chance Race
Derek Kraus (#19, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing) – Last Chance Race

​

 

[Spitfire]

Eldora Speedway Tailgate Party: Part Two

Full Race Recap

Lap 1
- The Eldora Dirt Derby kicks off, with Bobby Rey leading from the start. Stewart Friesen is close behind, challenging for the top spot.
Chandler Smith (#18) makes a quick pass on Todd Gilliland (#38) to move into 3rd, while Matt Crafton (#88) follows closely in 5th.
John Hunter Nemechek (#4) starts making moves, passing Ben Rhodes (#99) for 8th.

Lap 10
- Bobby Rey is holding onto the lead as Stewart Friesen looks for an opportunity to pass. Meanwhile, Matt Crafton moves into 4th, putting pressure on Chandler Smith.
- Brandon Blaze (#83) is having a rough time in the back, trying to find a rhythm on the dirt.

Lap 20
- Stewart Friesen dives under Bobby Rey for the lead, completing the pass by using the inside line. Grant Enfinger (#71) is pushing hard and advances into 5th.
- Brandon Blaze and Ty Majeski (#23) are fighting to stay inside the top 12.

Lap 40
- The race is getting more intense as Stewart Friesen holds the lead over Bobby Rey, but Grant Enfinger is closing in from 3rd.
- Brandon Blaze continues to make strides, moving up to 10th after passing Derek Kraus (#19) and Matt Crafton.

Lap 60
- Friesen is still in control, but Enfinger is showing impressive speed, closing the gap. Chandler Smith has dropped to 4th, with John Hunter Nemechek moving up to 5th.
- Ty Majeski has started to fall behind and is now outside the top 12.

Lap 80
- The drivers are pushing hard as Stewart Friesen and Grant Enfinger trade positions for the lead several times.
- Bobby Rey is hanging in 3rd, while Brandon Blaze continues to charge up the field.

Lap 100
- Friesen and Enfinger continue to lead, but Bobby Rey has dropped to 4th, with Brandon Blaze now in 5th.
- Matt Crafton is struggling with tire wear and drops further back, now in 11th.

Lap 120
- Enfinger has taken over the lead for the first time in the race, while Friesen settles into 2nd.
- Brandon Blaze is now up to 3rd, while Bobby Rey slips to 5th.
- Todd Gilliland is in 8th, maintaining a strong position.

Lap 140
- Grant Enfinger is continuing to control the race, but Stewart Friesen is all over him, keeping the pressure on.
- Brandon Blaze moves into 2nd after passing Friesen, while Bobby Rey battles for 4th with John Hunter Nemechek.

Lap 150
- Grant Enfinger crosses the line to win the Eldora Dirt Derby, holding off Brandon Blaze, who finishes 2nd. Stewart Friesen holds onto 3rd, and - Bobby Rey completes the top 4.

Final Race Results
1) Grant Enfinger (#71, Team Red Bull) – WINNER
2) Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports)
3) Stewart Friesen (#52, Halmar Friesen Racing)
4) Bobby Rey (#00, Front Row Motorsports)
5) John Hunter Nemechek (#4, Kyle Busch Motorsports)
6) Chandler Smith (#18, Kyle Busch Motorsports)
7) Ben Rhodes (#99, ThorSport Racing)
8) Todd Gilliland (#38, Front Row Motorsports)
9) Matt Crafton (#88, ThorSport Racing)
10) Ty Majeski (#23, GMS Racing)
11) Derek Kraus (#19, McAnally-Hilgemann Racing)
12) Logan Slayer (#40, DGR-Crosley)
13) Sheldon Creed (#2, GMS Racing)
14) Tommy Bedlam (#77, GMS Racing)
15) Tyler Ankrum (#26, DGR-Crosley)
16) Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske)

* * * * *

Grant Enfinger’s Historic Win: A Landmark Moment for Team Red Bull

Though the Eldora Dirt Derby was an exhibition race, it marked a significant milestone for Team Red Bull and its driver Grant Enfinger. Enfinger's victory, after a gripping battle with Stewart Friesen and Brandon Blaze, signals a promising future for the newly formed team.

As the checkered flag waved, Grant Enfinger was all smiles as he crossed the finish line, claiming the win in what was a thrilling 150-lap race. His performance was impeccable, managing tire wear and positioning himself at the right times to seize the lead and hold it until the end.

Team Red Bull’s celebration echoed far beyond the race track, as this victory was a testament to the hard work and dedication of both Enfinger and the team’s crew. Team Red Bull, which is still in its early stages, has now earned a major confidence boost ahead of its official debut season.

For Enfinger, this win is not only a personal triumph but also a sign of what's to come in the future. The victory serves as a statement of intent as Team Red Bull looks to make its mark in the 2021 Truck Series season, with Enfinger and teammate Zane Smith (#70) aiming to build on this success.

The victory is also special for Grant Enfinger personally, as he is known for his resilience and has proven to be a tough competitor on the dirt, cementing his place as a driver to watch in the coming seasons.

+ + + +

Brandon Blaze Spotted with Blake Lively in VIP Lounge Following Eldora Dirt Derby
While Grant Enfinger celebrated his landmark win for Team Red Bull, another major headline emerged off the track—Brandon Blaze was seen in the VIP Lounge with actress Blake Lively, fueling speculation that the two are now an item.

Rumors had been swirling for weeks about Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds going their separate ways, but Blaze’s appearance with the Hollywood starlet seems to confirm the split. The Niece Motorsports driver, who finished just short of victory at Eldora, didn’t seem too heartbroken about the loss on track, instead enjoying the post-race celebrations in exclusive company.

While neither Blaze nor Lively have made any public statements about their status, their cozy interactions in the VIP section certainly raised eyebrows. Could this be NASCAR’s newest power couple? Only time will tell.

+ + + +

Dubba Best Honors Wrestling Legend with Special 2021 Livery
After running a Bubba Gump livery at the Eldora Dirt Derby, Dubba Best revealed in the post-race press conference that he will be switching things up for the 2021 season. The McAnally-Hilgemann Racing driver will honor Cowboy Jeff Jarrett, a legend in professional wrestling, with a special tribute livery on his #20 Chevrolet Silverado.

The tribute design is expected to feature Jarrett’s iconic “Slapnuts” branding, a nod to his wrestling persona, along with elements reminiscent of his WCW and early TNA days. Best, who is known for his love of Southern culture and pro wrestling, expressed his excitement about carrying the legendary "Ain’t I Great?" attitude onto the racetrack.

With this announcement, Dubba Best is set to turn heads not just with his performance on the track, but with one of the most talked-about liveries of the upcoming season. Fans of both motorsports and wrestling will be eager to see the Cowboy Jeff Jarrett tribute truck make its debut when the season kicks off.

Dubba Best's #20 'Cowboy Jeff Jarrett' Chevrolet [McAnally-Hilgemann Racing]​

 

[Spitfire]

Butt Hertz – Driver Bio

Full Name: Butt Hertz
Age: 27
Hometown: Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Occupation: Call Center Representative & Amateur Rally Driver
Team: DirtyFish​

Before making his debut in the 2021 FIA Junior WRC, Butt Hertz was just another rally enthusiast balancing his passion for motorsport with the reality of a 9-to-5 job. Working as a call center representative in Iowa, he spent his days handling customer service calls, but his real focus was always on the dirt roads and backcountry trails where he honed his driving skills.

Growing up in the Midwest, Hertz developed a love for rallying by watching WRC highlights and competing in local grassroots events whenever he could afford it. Without major sponsors or factory backing, he built his experience through regional rally events, often driving old, second-hand cars that he modified himself. His skills were raw but undeniable, catching the attention of local rally fans who admired his fearless driving style and dedication.

Despite limited funding and experience, Hertz kept pushing, entering American Rally Association (ARA) events in lower categories and occasionally impressing with strong stage times. His breakthrough came when he submitted an application for the Junior WRC, hoping to prove himself against the world’s best young talents. To his surprise, he was accepted—although without a team backing him initially, he entered as a privateer.

With no professional racing background, Hertz knew he was stepping into uncharted territory. But when DirtyFish Rally Academy—a well-known USA-based rally development team—offered him a spot, he jumped at the chance. Now, with a proper team behind him and an identical Ford Fiesta Rally4 like the rest of the field, Hertz is ready to prove that even a call center worker from Iowa can make it in the world of rally racing.
​

His goal for 2021? Gain experience, survive every rally, and maybe—just maybe—shock the world with an underdog performance.

 

[Spitfire]

Daytona International Speedway: Part One
12th February

100 Laps (Stage 1–2 20: laps; Stage 3: 60 laps)

The wait is over, and the 2021 NASCAR Truck Series season is set to begin at the legendary Daytona International Speedway! On February 12, 2021, the 2.5-mile superspeedway will host the first race of the season, where drafting, teamwork, and survival will be the keys to victory.

Key Storylines Heading into Daytona

The Debut of Team Red Bull
One of the biggest stories of the offseason has been the arrival of Team Red Bull, a brand-new team making its Truck Series debut. After an exhibition win at Eldora, Grant Enfinger (#71) is coming in hot, while Zane Smith (#70) will also look to make a statement. Can Red Bull shake up the pecking order right away?

The Championship Contenders Return
Several big names are back in title contention, including Logan Slayer (#40, DGR-Crosley), who made the Championship 4 last season. Ben Rhodes (#99, ThorSport Racing) and Sheldon Creed (#2, GMS Racing) are also expected to be major threats. Will one of them start the season with a victory?

Bad Blood on Display
A lot of offseason drama is carrying over into Daytona. Bobby Rey (#00, Front Row Motorsports) has unfinished business after a rough split from Niece Motorsports, and his former teammate Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports) has already proven to be a top contender. With both drivers in the mix, could fireworks erupt on track?

Kevin Magnussen's Superspeedway Debut
Former Formula 1 driver Kevin Magnussen (#8, Kyle Busch Motorsports) is making his full-time Truck Series debut, and he’s stepping right into the unpredictable world of pack racing at Daytona. How will he handle bump drafting, blocking, and the notorious "Big One"?

* * * *

Top Contenders & Dark Horses

Favorites
- Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports) – A proven superspeedway racer with 5 wins last season.
- Ben Rhodes (#99, ThorSport Racing) – A former Daytona winner with a knack for restrictor-plate racing.
- Grant Enfinger (#71, Team Red Bull) – Riding momentum from Eldora, can he go 2-for-2 in 2021?

Dark Horses
- Bobby Rey (#00, Front Row Motorsports) – A talented driver with extra motivation to make a statement.
- Tommy Bedlam (#77, GMS Racing) – The wild card who could surprise in the draft.
Kevin Magnussen (#8, Kyle Busch Motorsports) – Road-course star learning superspeedway racing on the fly.

+ + + + +

Qualifying – Round 1 Results

Top 12 advance to Round 2 ⏩
1️⃣ Brandon Blaze (#83) – 49.381 sec ⏩
2️⃣ Logan Slayer (#40) – 49.402 sec ⏩
3️⃣ John Hunter Nemechek (#4) – 49.419 sec ⏩
4️⃣ Juice Millar (#53) – 49.425 sec ⏩
5️⃣ Grant Enfinger (#71) – 49.430 sec ⏩
6️⃣ Kevin Magnussen (#8) – 49.437 sec ⏩
7️⃣ Sheldon Creed (#2) – 49.445 sec ⏩
8️⃣ Bobby Rey (#00) – 49.457 sec ⏩
9️⃣ Chandler Smith (#18) – 49.466 sec ⏩
1️⃣0 Ben Rhodes (#99) – 49.472 sec ⏩
1️⃣1️⃣ Matt Crafton (#88) – 49.478 sec ⏩
1️⃣2️⃣ Ty Majeski (#23) – 49.485 sec ⏩

Eliminated (Starting positions 13th-32nd determined)
Johnny Sauter (#13) – P13
Derek Kraus (#19) – P14
Carson Hocevar (#42) – P15
Austin Hill (#16) – P16
Stewart Friesen (#52) – P17
Arthur D'Tea (#51) – P18
Barbie Stellar (#27) – P19
Raphael Lessard (#25) – P20
Todd Gilliland (#38) – P21
Germain Loochhausen (#21) – P22
Tanner Gray (#02) – P23
Austin Wayne Self (#22) – P24
Jordan Anderson (#3) – P25
Timothy Peters (#25) – P26
Tyler Ankrum (#26) – P27
Christian Eckes (#12) – P28
Dubb Best (#20) – P29
Tommy Bedlam (#77) – P30
Zane Smith (#70) – P31
Brett Moffitt (#45) – P32

* * *
Round 2 – The Battle for Pole

Frort Row (Pole & P2)
1️⃣ Brandon Blaze (#83) – 49.350 sec
2️⃣ Logan Slayer (#40) – 49.365 sec

Row 2:
3️⃣ John Hunter Nemechek (#4) – 49.372 sec
4️⃣ Juice Millar (#53) – 49.379 sec

Row 3:
5️⃣ Grant Enfinger (#71) – 49.387 sec
6️⃣ Kevin Magnussen (#8) – 49.395 sec

Row 4:
7️⃣ Sheldon Creed (#2) – 49.402 sec
8️⃣ Bobby Rey (#00) – 49.409 sec

Row 5:
9️⃣ Chandler Smith (#18) – 49.416 sec
10 Ben Rhodes (#99) – 49.423 sec

Row 6:
1️⃣1️⃣ Matt Crafton (#88) – 49.429 sec
1️⃣2️⃣ Ty Majeski (#23) – 49.437 sec

+ + + + +

Kevin Magnussen on his Truck Series Debut at Daytona
"Man, this is incredible! First time out in the NASCAR Truck Series, and we’re starting inside Row 3—that’s amazing! The Kyle Busch Motorsports guys have given me a fast #8 Toyota, and I’m really enjoying this superspeedway racing. It’s a whole different kind of challenge compared to Formula 1 and sports cars, but I’m loving it. We’ve got great speed, and I think we can run up front in the race. It’s all about staying smart, working the draft, and being there at the end. I can’t wait to go racing at Daytona!"

Magnussen starts P6 in his NASCAR debut, looking to make an early statement!

Kevin Magnussen's #8 Red Lightning Toyota [Kyle Busch Motorsports]

Magnussen chuckled when asked about the design choice, saying:
"I wanted something that felt powerful, fast, and a little nostalgic. Lightning McQueen is legendary, and the Power Rangers were all about teamwork, strength, and winning battles. It just felt right for my first full season in Trucks."

* * *

Tommy Bedlam Reacts to Disappointing Qualifying Run at Daytona
"I don’t know, man… something just wasn’t right with the truck. We had speed in practice, but when it came to qualifying, it just felt off. Whether it’s an issue with the motor, aero, or something else, we need to dig into it and figure it out before the race. Starting this far back isn’t ideal, but hey, it’s Daytona—anything can happen. We’ll regroup, work with our GMS Racing teammates, and try to race our way to the front. It’s gonna be a long 100 laps, and we’ll be ready."

Bedlam will have work to do from deep in the field but remains determined to bounce back on race day

* * *

Germain Loochhausen Keeps Expectations in Check After Qualifying P22 at Daytona:
"Starting 22nd isn’t too bad, considering this is my first real go at NASCAR oval racing. Honestly, if I can stay in this position by the end of the race, I’ll consider that a win. Superspeedway racing is unpredictable, and I know there’s a big learning curve for me. The Hattori Racing guys have been great in helping me adjust, and my teammate Austin Hill has been a huge help. My plan is to stay out of trouble, learn as much as I can, and just make it to the finish. If we can do that, maybe we’ll get lucky and come out of here with a solid result."

The German DTM driver is embracing the challenge and hoping to survive the chaos at Daytona!

Germanin Loochhausen's #21 Rave Bear Toyota [Hattori Racing]

Loochhausen laughed when explaining the concept:
"I see myself as a bear on track—strong, determined, but also unpredictable. And off the track, I’ve always loved the energy and passion of the German rave scene. It’s all about feeling the moment, embracing the chaos, and staying positive. That’s what this livery represents."

Fans have already embraced the "Rave Bear" nickname, with many hoping to see it lead the charge under the lights at Daytona.

* * *

Brandon Blaze Celebrates Daytona Pole – and Takes Some Jabs at the Competition!
"Hell yeah! Daytona pole, baby! The Niece Motorsports guys brought an absolute rocket ship, and we showed it today. I knew we had speed, but man, putting the #83 up front at a place like this? Feels amazing. Now, we just gotta finish what we started in the race."

On Tommy Bedlam and Zane Smith’s poor qualifying runs:
"I gotta say, I expected a little more from some of these guys. I mean, Zane? Tommy? Where y’all at?! Hope y’all brought binoculars, ‘cause you’re gonna need ‘em to see me on the front row! Maybe they just like racing from the back—who knows? But hey, I’ll be nice and leave a little draft for ‘em when they finally catch up… if they do."

Brandon Blaze kicks off Speedweeks with confidence, swagger, and a bit of trash talk. Can he back it up in the race? ​

 

[Spitfire]

Daytona International Speedway: Part Two
* * *
Stage 1 Recap – Daytona International Speedway (Laps 1-20)
Lap 1
- The green flag waves, and Brandon Blaze gets off to a strong start from pole position, with Kevin Magnussen (#8) right behind him in 2nd. The field immediately forms up in packs, with Bobby Rey (#00) and Grant Enfinger (#71) both making early moves on the inside line. It's a clean start, and everyone is still feeling things out early.

Lap 4
- The first big shuffle in positions, with Todd Gilliland (#38) jumping to the front of the pack, trying to find his rhythm. Meanwhile, Tommy Bedlam (#77) is struggling in the back, unable to make up much ground after his poor qualifying performance. He’s falling behind early, but there’s still plenty of time to make it up.

Lap 7
- The field begins to break into two main packs, with Brandon Blaze still holding onto the lead. Zane Smith (#70) is making some bold moves, but it's Brett Moffitt (#45) who’s impressively climbing up from mid-pack. John Hunter Nemechek (#4) has also managed to make up a few spots, showing strong handling early on.

Lap 10
- As the field stretches out, there’s a lot of shuffling for position. Stewart Friesen (#52) is working with Grant Enfinger (#71), trying to move forward, but Austin Hill (#16) is catching up, creating a three-wide battle for the top spot. Brandon Blaze is holding steady in the lead, but the pack is starting to tighten up. Kevin Magnussen continues to show strong pace, running in the top five.

Lap 13
- The first big move comes from Chandler Smith (#18), who pushes past Bobby Rey (#00) for 3rd. Ben Rhodes (#99) and Matt Crafton (#88) are also trying to make their way forward, while Derek Kraus (#19) is showing early speed, working his way into the top 10.

Lap 16
- Caution flag comes out! A minor incident in the back as Christian Eckes (#12) and Raphael Lessard (#25) get tangled up, causing the yellow flag to fly. Both cars manage to avoid major damage, but the caution gives everyone a chance to reset. Brandon Blaze retains the lead, but there are a lot of hungry drivers looking for a chance to pounce in the remaining laps of Stage 1.

Lap 17
- Pit stops begin! Most teams take four tires and fuel, with a few opting for two tires to gain positions. Brandon Blaze stays out on track, maintaining his lead, while others make their moves on pit road.

Lap 18
- The field lines up for a restart, and it's still Brandon Blaze at the front, with Kevin Magnussen now in 2nd. As the green flag flies, the battle for the Stage 1 victory intensifies!

Lap 20 (End of Stage 1)
- Brandon Blaze takes the Stage 1 victory, holding off Kevin Magnussen and Grant Enfinger. Stewart Friesen and Ben Rhodes round out the top five. The field is tightly bunched up, and all eyes are now on the strategies heading into Stage 2!

Stage 2 Recap – Daytona International Speedway (Laps 21-40)

Lap 21
- The green flag waves, and Brandon Blaze continues to lead the field, but Kevin Magnussen is quick to challenge from 2nd. The top drivers continue to jockey for position, but the pack is bunched up tight. Early on, it’s Grant Enfinger (#71) and Stewart Friesen (#52) staying in the top 5, battling for position.

Lap 24
- Caution comes out for a spin involving Austin Wayne Self (#22), who got loose and made minor contact with the wall. This brings the field back together, and it’s a big opportunity for the drivers in the mid-pack to make up ground.

Lap 26
- As teams prepare for pit stops, we see some aggressive strategies. A few drivers like Tommy Bedlam (#77), Juice Millar (#53), and Barbie Stellar (#27) take two tires to gain track position, while others opt for the full set of four. The pit stops are hectic, but Bedlam and Millar seem to gain the most ground.

Lap 29
- The field restarts, and Tommy Bedlam is flying, using his two-tire strategy to move up several positions. Meanwhile, Juice Millar is right behind him, making a push toward the front. Barbie Stellar also benefits from her pit strategy, moving into the top 10.

Lap 32
- Caution again! A multi-truck incident involving Ty Majeski (#23) and Christian Eckes (#12) brings out the yellow flag. Both trucks spin but avoid major damage, and the field bunches up once again.

Lap 34
- With so many drivers now on the move, Tommy Bedlam, Juice Millar, and Barbie Stellar are all now in the top 10. The intensity builds as the field restarts with Brandon Blaze still in the lead, but Magnussen, Enfinger, and Friesen are right there to challenge.

Lap 38
Another caution flag for a smaller incident in the back involving Tanner Gray (#02) and John Hunter Nemechek (#4). The two make light contact, but both are able to continue. The field will regroup once again, with many teams making minor adjustments.

Lap 40 (End of Stage 2)
- Brandon Blaze holds onto the lead and wins Stage 2, with Kevin Magnussen and Grant Enfinger close behind. Tommy Bedlam has made a huge jump, finishing in 4th, while Juice Millar and Barbie Stellar are also in the top 10, showing strong resilience through all the cautions.

- The mid-pack drivers have made major strides, and as the final stage begins, the competition is tightening up!

Stage 3 Recap – Daytona International Speedway (Laps 41-100)

Lap 41
- As the final stage of the race begins, Brandon Blaze remains in the lead, but Kevin Magnussen and Grant Enfinger have their sights set on moving past him. Tommy Bedlam is still in the mix, but Barbie Stellar and Juice Millar seem to be struggling for position after their strong runs in Stage 2.

Lap 45
- The battle at the front is heating up, with Brandon Blaze and Kevin Magnussen fighting for the top spot. Meanwhile, Logan Slayer (#40) continues to impress, steadily moving through the pack, looking poised for a strong finish.

Lap 50
- Caution Flag waves! A big incident as Brandon Blaze tangles with lapped traffic, specifically Germain Loochhausen (#21). The two make contact in Turn 4, causing Blaze to spin and slam into the wall! Blaze is out of the race, and this brings out a full-course caution. It’s a devastating end to his day, as he was in the hunt for the win.

Lap 55
- Kevin Magnussen, who had been running in the top 5, seems to have lost pace following the restart. He begins to lose positions quickly, falling outside the top 10. It's unclear if he’s struggling with the car or just caught in the chaos of the race, but it’s a rough turn of events for the debutante.

Lap 60
- The field gets a bit more spread out after the restart, and Logan Slayer is now firmly in the mix, moving up into the top 5. His steady driving and smart positioning on the track put him in contention for the win. Juice Millar and Matt Crafton are also showing impressive speed as the laps tick down.

Lap 75
- Caution Flag waves once again, this time for a minor incident involving Christian Eckes (#12) and Tyler Ankrum (#26). Both trucks are able to continue, but the field is now even tighter, setting up for a thrilling finish.

Lap 80
- As the race resumes, Logan Slayer is now in position to challenge for the win, taking the lead after a strong restart. Stewart Friesen, Grant Enfinger, and Tommy Bedlam all battle for the remaining spots in the top 5.

Lap 90
- The tension is palpable as Logan Slayer continues to lead, with Grant Enfinger right behind him. Juice Millar is also impressing, keeping himself in the mix.

Lap 100
- It’s a thrilling finish, as Logan Slayer holds onto the lead and sprints to the win. He takes the checkered flag for an impressive victory in the final stage, securing the win after a dominant performance in the final laps.

- Meanwhile, Kevin Magnussen and Brandon Blaze are both left to reflect on what might have been, as Slayer takes the win and proves his strength on the superspeedway.

- Logan Slayer impresses by securing the win, showing that he’s a strong contender in the 2021 season. While Kevin Magnussen and Brandon Blaze had moments of brilliance, Slayer took advantage of the opportunities presented to him and capitalized for the victory.

- This is a huge win for DGR-Crosley, and Slayer will certainly be one to watch in the upcoming races. The race was chaotic, with plenty of caution flags and shifting fortunes, but Slayer’s consistency paid off in the end.

+ + + +

Logan Slayer (#40, Race Winner):
"It feels amazing to take home the win in my first race of the season. The team did an incredible job setting up the truck, and we stayed focused throughout. The cautions definitely shook up the field, but we made the right moves when it counted. I’m proud of the way we managed the strategy, kept our nose clean, and capitalized on those late-race opportunities. Huge thanks to DGR-Crosley for giving me the truck to get it done today. We’ve got momentum now, and we’re going to carry that into the next race!"

Grant Enfinger (#71, 2nd Place):
"That was a hard-fought race. We didn’t have the best start, but we kept grinding, and the team made some solid adjustments during the cautions. It’s always tough at Daytona, especially with how quickly things can change, but we stayed out of trouble and put ourselves in a good spot at the end. A second-place finish isn’t a win, but we’re definitely happy with the result. I’ve got to give credit to my spotter and crew for keeping me out of the mess. We’ll keep working on improving and aim for that top spot next time."

Juice Millar (#53, 3rd Place):
"What a race! Daytona never disappoints, and today was no different. I’m happy with a top-three finish, but there were definitely moments where I thought we could’ve had a shot at the win. The strategy with the cautions played a huge role, and I think we could’ve been a little more aggressive earlier. Still, I’ve got no complaints – we had a fast truck, and the team executed well. We’ll take the momentum and carry it into the next race. This third place gives us a solid start to the season, and we’re hungry for more."
​

 

[Tommy Bedlam]

Taylor Kitchen: Tommy Bedlam, how does it feel to salvage a top 5 after that rough start to the weekend?

Tommy Bedlam: WHEW! That one absolutely wore me out. Damn, I'm tired [Tommy trying to catch his breath]. Qualifying sucked. Early part of the race absolutely sucked. I'm still not entirely sure what was up with the truck, but damn, we just came off the truck slow. I was...seeing Red all weekend. We'll get that figured out before next week. To get a top 5 out of this weekend with how bad things got started, I'll absolutely take that. The two-tire strategy really paid off, major credit to Hank for making that call. To get the Jack Daniels Chevrolet that close to the front after what could've been a disaster is a testament to this team.

Taylor: Any thoughts on the Brandon Blaze incident with Magnussen?

Tommy: Nah. I haven't seen the replay or anything. But I'm sure it wasn't Blaze's fault. Nothing ever is, right?

[Tommy smiles and turns to hop on a golf cart that's taking him back to his RV]

 

[Spitfire]

Daytona International Speedway: Part Three

Brandon Blaze - 31st (#83, Niece Motorsports), clearly frustrated after the race, had some strong words following his incident with Germain Loochhausen (#21, Hattori Racing):
"I can't believe what just happened out there. I mean, rookie drivers need to learn how to race properly. It's insane that I’ve got to deal with this kind of stuff. Loochhausen was all over the place, and it cost me my race. I was in a good position, and then this kid just doesn’t have the experience to handle the pressure. I don't know what he was thinking, but we were racing for position, and he made a move that just didn’t make sense. It's frustrating, because this kind of stuff shouldn’t be happening at this level. I'm all for giving rookies a shot, but they need to show they know how to handle themselves, especially on superspeedways like this. At the end of the day, it was on him, and it cost me. Hopefully, they’ll learn from this and race smarter next time."

Despite Blaze's rant, replays from the incident seemed to show that the contact was more a result of Blaze's own misjudgment rather than Loochhausen's actions. Nonetheless, Blaze’s frustration was clear, and the rookie driver’s early-season struggles have clearly sparked some tension.

* * * *

Barbie Stellar - 7th (#27, DGR-Crosley) was in high spirits after the race and optimistic about the season ahead:
"I’m really happy with the way the car felt today. The team did a great job giving me the right adjustments, and I felt like I was able to stay competitive all race long. 2021 is going to be a much better year for us, no doubt. I know there were some rumors floating around last year about me possibly going back to ARCA, but that’s behind me now. We’ve got a solid program here at DGR-Crosley, and I feel more confident than ever about what we can achieve this year. The team’s been working hard, and I’m excited to show everyone that we can compete at the top. I think this is the start of something really positive, and I’m looking forward to putting together some strong finishes!"

Barbie Stellar’s remarks show a clear shift in attitude from last season’s uncertainties, and her confidence suggests a renewed focus and determination for the 2021 campaign.

* * * *

Dubba Best - 26th (#20, McAnally-Hilgemann) expressed a strong sense of determination after the race, vowing to do better as the season progresses:
"I know I can do better than what we showed today. I wasn’t completely satisfied with the result, but it’s a learning experience, and we’ll build from it. I have a lot of respect for Chris Southern, but I’m here to prove that I can be a worthy replacement for him. The fans deserve to see us perform at the highest level, and that’s exactly what I plan to do. I know the team has been through some changes, but I’m confident that together, we’ll be a contender. I want to thank everyone for their support, and I promise you, there’s much more to come. This is just the beginning of what I know will be a great season."

Dubba’s words reflect his commitment to improving and solidifying his place as a key player in the series. His confidence in both himself and the team shows he’s ready to take on the challenge of filling Southern’s shoes.

* * * *

Grant Enfinger (#71, Team Red Bull) and Zane Smith (#70, Team Red Bull) were both thrilled with their performances in the season opener, especially given it was their debut with the newly formed team. Enfinger, finishing 2nd, and Smith, securing 8th, celebrated the results.

Enfinger took a moment to acknowledge the importance of Ford’s involvement in their successful start:
"This is exactly the kind of debut we were hoping for with Team Red Bull. Finishing 2nd in our first race as a team is a huge confidence booster, and it really shows the potential we have. I want to thank Ford for agreeing to power us through this transition year. Their support has been invaluable, and it feels great to represent them on track. We’ve got a lot of work ahead of us, but this is an amazing start to what I think will be a successful season for us. The team has done a fantastic job, and I’m excited for what the rest of the year holds."

Zane Smith, who ended the race in 8th, was also pleased with the result, especially considering it was a challenging debut for Team Red Bull:
"I'm super proud of how we ran today. 8th place is a solid start, especially for a new team. We’re all still learning how to work together, but this shows that we’ve got a lot of potential. I have to give a big thanks to Ford for coming on board and powering us through our entry year. Their belief in us is huge, and it’s definitely paying off. I’m excited to build on this performance and see what we can do in the next races. This is just the beginning!"

Both Enfinger and Smith were all smiles after the race, clearly confident that Team Red Bull, with its strong backing from Ford, is poised to make a lasting impact in the Truck Series in 2021.

* * * *

Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske) was ecstatic with his performance, finishing 3rd in the season opener. The young driver couldn’t hide his excitement about the team and the way things have come together so quickly:
"I’m honestly thrilled with how everything went today. 3rd place in our first race together is a big step forward for Team Penske. The setup we’ve got around us is something special. The team has worked incredibly hard to put everything in place, and I’m so grateful for all the support. Honestly, after this, I can’t imagine ever driving anything but a Ford again. They’ve been amazing to work with, and I feel like we’re really starting something here. Everything just clicked this weekend, and I’m excited to keep building on it. We’ve got a lot of momentum, and I’m just really pumped for the rest of the season!"

Juice’s enthusiasm for Team Penske and the Ford partnership is palpable, showing a deep commitment to both the team and the brand. With a performance like this, he’s clearly poised for more success in the 2021 season.


+ + + + +

STANDINGS 2021

​

 

[Spitfire]

Daytona International Speedway: Part Four

Tommy Bedlam (#02, SS-Green Light Racing) took part in the Xfinity Beef. It's What's for Dinner. 300 the following day, showcasing his talent in a different series. It was a solid debut for Bedlam, who worked hard through the stages of the race:

Stage 1: Bedlam started off strong in Stage 1, finishing in 8th place, staying competitive and keeping his car in the mix as he navigated through the field.

Stage 2: In Stage 2, Bedlam maintained his momentum, finishing in 7th place, continuing to show his ability to adapt and handle the challenges of racing in the Xfinity Series.

However, in the final stage, despite his best efforts, Tommy struggled to maintain the same pace, but he still secured a solid finish.

Top 10 Finishers for the Xfinity Beef. It's What's for Dinner. 300:
1st. A.J. Allmendinger (#16, Kaulig Racing)
2nd. Tyler Reddick (#2, Richard Childress Racing)
3rd. Austin Cindric (#22, Team Penske)
4th. Noah Gragson (#9, JR Motorsports)
5th. Justin Haley (#11, Kaulig Racing)
6th. Harrison Burton (#20, Joe Gibbs Racing)
7th. Daniel Hemric (#18, Joe Gibbs Racing)
8th. Tommy Bedlam (#02, SS-Green Light Racing)
9th. Ryan Sieg (#39, RSS Racing)
10th. Brandon Brown (#68, Brandonbilt Motorsports)

Tommy Bedlam’s 8th-place finish in his Xfinity debut shows a lot of promise as he continues to build on his racing experience. While he didn’t get a podium finish, staying in the top ten through the stages and finishing strong was a positive sign for the driver and SS-Green Light Racing.

#02 Chevrolet SS-Green Light Racing

Tommy Bedlam shared an emotional interview after his 8th-place finish in the Xfinity Beef. It's What's for Dinner. 300, and he couldn’t have been more thankful for the opportunity to race in the series, as well as the support from his team, SS-Green Light Racing.
"I honestly don’t have the words for how much this means to me. Finishing 8th in my debut race in the Xfinity Series is something I’ll never forget. It was a tough race, but I stayed focused and just tried to keep the car in a good spot. A big thank you to SS-Green Light Racing for giving me this shot, and for believing in me. Without them, none of this would have been possible. I’m really looking forward to racing again and just keeping this momentum going. I feel like we’ve got something special here, and I’m excited for what’s ahead!"

Bedlam was clearly overcome with emotion, expressing his gratitude for the team and the opportunity to show his potential.

When asked about his personal life, Bedlam didn't shy away from confirming a long-rumored relationship:
"And yeah, I’m really happy to say that me and Taylor Swift are very much an item. She’s been an incredible support, and I’m lucky to have her in my life. She’s just as amazing off the track as she is in the spotlight, and I’m just thankful for everything. It’s a special time, and I’m just living in the moment!"

Tommy Bedlam's passion for racing and his emotional reflection on his first Xfinity race, coupled with his personal announcement, left fans excited for both his future in racing and his relationship with the global superstar.

* * * *

Daniel Hemric Questions Bedlam’s Aggressive Driving in Xfinity Debut

After finishing 7th in the Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. 300 at Daytona, Daniel Hemric (#18, Joe Gibbs Racing) shared his thoughts on racing around Tommy Bedlam (#02, SS-Green Light Racing)—who finished 8th in his Xfinity Series debut.

Hemric admitted he was surprised by Bedlam’s aggressive approach, especially considering it was his first-ever Xfinity race:
"Man, I don’t know if he was just trying to prove something or what, but he was all over the place behind me. I had to stay on my toes because I wasn’t sure what he was gonna do next. It’s hard to believe that was his first Xfinity race. He wasn’t afraid to take risks, that’s for sure."

Despite the concerns about Bedlam’s aggressiveness, Hemric acknowledged that finishing 8th in a debut race was impressive:
"He got the result, so you can’t knock that. If he keeps that up and refines a few things, he’s gonna be a real problem for people in this series."

There is now confirmation on when Bedlam will drive the #02, other than that Sheldon Creed will get the next drive of the car.​

 

[Spitfire]

Homestead-Miami Speedway: Part One
19th February

134 Laps (Stage 1–2 40: laps; Stage 3: 54 laps)

The 2021 Truck Series heads to Homestead-Miami Speedway on February 19, 2021, for the second race of the season, promising another exciting showdown on the high-speed, intermediate oval. This 1.5-mile track is known for its tire-wear challenges and multi-groove racing, which will test drivers’ abilities to adapt and find the right line over the course of the race.

With only one race behind them, drivers will be eager to prove themselves on this type of track. Homestead is especially significant because it has been a deciding race in the past, with its long history of delivering dramatic finishes and strategic battles.

Key Storylines
- Logan Slayer (#40, DGR-Crosley) is coming off a win at Daytona and carries momentum into Homestead. As one of the fastest drivers, he’ll be looking to extend his lead in the points standings and claim another victory early in the season.

- Grant Enfinger (#71, Team Red Bull) had a great debut with Team Red Bull, finishing in second at Daytona, and will look to continue that momentum. His relationship with Ford is expected to be a key factor in his performance on the high-speed oval of Homestead.

- Juice Millar (#53, Team Penske) earned a strong third-place finish at Daytona and has set high expectations for himself. The #53 team will be focused on taking that speed to Homestead and challenging for a top position.

- Brandon Blaze (#83, Niece Motorsports) will need to prove that his strong qualifying results can translate into a solid race finish. After a disappointing result at Daytona, he’s motivated to get back on track.

- Tommy Bedlam (#77, GMS Racing) impressed many with his Xfinity debut, and now he returns to the Truck Series with GMS Racing. Expect him to be aggressive as he strives to improve on his Daytona results.

- Bobby Rey (#00, Front Row Motorsports), Brett Moffitt (#45, Niece Motorsports), and Ben Rhodes (#99, ThorSport Racing) will also be key contenders, hoping to build upon their early-season results.

* * *

Key Storylines from Qualifying
- Brandon Blaze takes pole! After a frustrating finish at Daytona, Blaze storms back to secure the top spot at Homestead, giving himself the best chance to bounce back.

- Logan Slayer on the front row again! The Daytona winner continues to show great pace, just missing out on pole position.

- Grant Enfinger remains strong! After a 2nd place finish at Daytona, Enfinger proves Team Red Bull’s speed is no fluke, qualifying in the top three.

- Juice Millar stays hot! The Team Penske Ford driver rolls off from 4th, keeping his momentum after a strong podium last time out.

- Several big names, including Tommy Bedlam, Barbie Stellar, and Kevin Magnussen, will need to fight their way up from deeper in the field when the green flag drops.

- With long green flag runs expected at Homestead, tire wear and strategy will play a huge role. The front-runners will be looking to capitalize on clean air, while others hope to charge through the pack.

+ + + +

Brandon Blaze on Back-to-Back Poles:
“Two poles in two races. I don’t think there’s any doubt—I’m the fastest man in the Trucks.”

Brandon Blaze was brimming with confidence after securing his second consecutive pole to start the 2021 Truck Series season. After a frustrating end to the first race at Daytona, Blaze is determined to turn speed into results at Homestead.

“Look, nobody’s touching me over one lap, and I plan to prove that I can turn this speed into a win. Daytona was just bad luck, but here, there’s nowhere to hide. The best driver wins, and I’m ready to dominate.”

Blaze’s aggressive driving style has already made headlines, and his rivals will no doubt be keeping an eye on him when the green flag drops at Homestead.

Brandon Blaze's #83 Poo Emoji Georgia Peach Chevrolet [Niece Motorsports]​

 

[Spitfire]

Homestead-Miami Speedway: Part Two

* * * *

Stage 1 Recap - (Laps 1-40)

Lap 6
- Just a few laps into the race at Homestead, disaster struck for some of the biggest names in the Truck Series! As the outside draft lane started to form, Brandon Blaze, Logan Slayer, Grant Enfinger, Ben Rhodes, and John Hunter Nemechek were all caught in a chain-reaction wreck that drastically altered the race.

- Blaze and Slayer were battling aggressively for the lead when slight contact between them caused Blaze to get loose. Enfinger, running right behind them, had nowhere to go and clipped Blaze’s truck, sending him sideways. Rhodes and Nemechek, stacked up behind the wreck, were also collected as trucks scattered trying to avoid the chaos. Multiple trucks suffered major damage, forcing them to pit for repairs.

- Blaze, Enfinger, and Nemechek each lost multiple laps due to extensive repairs. Slayer and Rhodes managed to stay on the lead lap but had to restart deep in the field.

- The caution lasted for several laps as the cleanup crew worked to remove debris. With several favorites now struggling, this race has been turned on its head early! The door is wide open for other contenders to take control of Stage One.

Lap 10
- With Blaze, Enfinger, and Nemechek laps down after repairs, Juice Millar, Stewart Friesen, and Carson Hocevar led the field back to green. Millar quickly pulled ahead, using the clean air to control the race, while Friesen and Hocevar battled behind him.

Lap 20
- Juice Millar continued to set the pace but faced growing pressure from Bobby Rey (#00) and Austin Hill (#16). Ty Majeski (#23) worked his way into the top five after starting mid-pack. Barbie Stellar (#27) was quietly making gains, running just inside the top ten.

Lap 31
- Christian Eckes (#12) spun off Turn 4 after slight contact with Matt Crafton (#88). No major damage, but the caution reset the field, bunching everyone up for a final sprint to the stage finish.

Lap 36
- Juice Millar led the restart, but Bobby Rey got a massive push from Hocevar, briefly taking the lead. Friesen, Millar, and Hocevar ran three-wide for several laps, thrilling the crowd!

Lap 40
-Millar held on to win Stage One, followed closely by Rey and Friesen. Stellar managed to sneak into the top five, while Tommy Bedlam made a late charge to grab valuable stage points.

Stage 2 Recap - (Laps 41-80)

Lap 45
- Both Grant Enfinger (#71) and John Hunter Nemechek (#4) were already in damage control mode after the Lap 6 wreck. However, their nights officially ended when Enfinger’s engine let go, causing a thick cloud of smoke to pour from the #71 Team Red Bull Ford. At nearly the same time, Nemechek brought the #4 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota to pit road with terminal suspension damage. Both were forced to retire.

Lap 50
- With Enfinger and Nemechek out, the race shuffled dramatically. Arthur D’Tea (#51) found himself battling with Matt Crafton (#88), Stewart Friesen (#52), and Juice Millar (#53) at the front. Tommy Bedlam (#77) and Barbie Stellar (#27) continued their climb, proving their early-stage pace was no fluke.

Lap 60
- Tommy Bedlam made an aggressive three-wide move into Turn 3, getting past Crafton and Hocevar to take 3rd. Carson Hocevar nearly lost control in the dirty air, but somehow kept the #42 Niece Motorsports Chevy off the wall.

Lap 70
- Juice Millar and Friesen swapped the lead multiple times, with D’Tea hanging in their draft. Austin Hill (#16) entered the conversation, pushing his way into the top five.

Lap 80
- D’Tea capitalized on a late-race caution and executed a perfect restart, slipping by Friesen and Millar. Friesen and Hill ran side-by-side for second, allowing D’Tea to gap the field and claim his first-ever Truck Series stage win! Bobby Rey surged back into the top five, while Barbie Stellar picked up more valuable points.

Stage 3 Recap - (Laps 81-134)

Lap 90
- Just as Juice Millar (#53), Stewart Friesen (#52), and Tommy Bedlam (#77) were in the middle of green flag pit stops, a caution came out due to Ty Majeski (#23) losing a tire and spinning on the frontstretch.

- The untimely yellow flag trapped them deep in the field, forcing them to restart outside the top 15. With only 44 laps left, the trio had a mountain to climb to get back into contention.

Lap 110
- Millar, Friesen, and Bedlam linked up in a draft on the high line, using the momentum to fly past mid-pack runners like Bobby Rey, Barbie Stellar, and Carson Hocevar. Millar took the lead of the group, with Friesen and Bedlam working together to push him forward.

Lap 125
- With just 9 laps to go, the three-truck draft of Millar, Friesen, and Bedlam caught the leaders. Austin Hill (#16) and Arthur D’Tea (#51) were locked in their own battle up front but were quickly overwhelmed by the high-speed freight train closing in.

Lap 134
- Coming down the backstretch, Millar, Friesen, and Bedlam lined up tight in a three-truck draft. Juice Millar made a bold move up the middle, splitting the gap between Hill and D’Tea. Friesen followed Millar, keeping the momentum alive, while Bedlam continued to push the pair forward. Off Turn 4, Millar surged ahead, Friesen held steady, and Bedlam rocketed into 3rd!

- Juice Millar WINS at Homestead! Millar, Friesen, and Bedlam completed an unbelievable comeback, going from deep in the pack to finishing 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in dramatic fashion! The power of the three-truck draft proved unstoppable, as nobody had the speed to break their momentum on the final lap.

* * *

Top Three Reactions

Juice Millar (#53) – Race Winner
"Man, what a race! I thought we were done after that caution, but Stewart and Tommy stuck with me, and we just made magic happen. Huge credit to Team Penske and Ford – this truck was a rocket ship. I can’t imagine driving anything else!"

Stewart Friesen (#52) – 2nd Place
"We executed that draft to perfection. Juice made the move, and we had no choice but to go with him. I really wanted that win, but this was a hell of a race. Props to the #53 crew!"

Tommy Bedlam (#77) – 3rd Place
"That was incredible. We went from a lap down to the podium in one stage! I can’t thank my guys at GMS enough. I knew Juice was fast, and we just committed to working together. I’ll take a P3 any day!"
​

 

[Spitfire]

Homestead-Miami Speedway: Part Three

Stewart Friesen praised Juice Millar in his post-race interview, saying:
"Juice was a great teammate last year at HFR, and I had no problem giving them that push over the line tonight. We worked together well in the draft, and when it came down to it, I knew we could trust each other to get up front. Congrats to them on the win—I'm happy to bring home second."

Friesen's respect for Millar was clear, highlighting their past chemistry at Halmar Friesen Racing and how it played a role in tonight’s thrilling finish.

+ + + +

In a heartfelt post-race celebration interview, Juice Millar offered thanks to both Stewart Friesen and Tommy Bedlam:
"I gotta thank Stewart and Tommy. Even though we’re not on the same team at all, this sport is all about having friends you can trust. They helped me out tonight, and I know I can count on them when it matters. I’m sure the favor will get returned in the future, whether on the track or off it. It’s moments like this that remind me why I love racing—having that camaraderie with fellow drivers. Tonight was a great example of that."

Juice’s words emphasized the spirit of teamwork and friendship that often transcends team boundaries, making the Truck Series race a memorable one.

+ + + +

In his post-race reflection, Tommy Bedlam admitted to another frustrating qualifying result but was thrilled with his performance in the race:
"Qualifying was tough again, and I know I need to work on that, but I’m really happy with how the race went. Coming home in 3rd, especially after how things went down in Stage 1, feels like a win in itself. We had some tough breaks, but the car was dialed in for the long run, and I knew if I kept my head in it, I could fight my way back up. Big thanks to the team for sticking with me and making the right adjustments. I’m proud of how we fought today."

Tommy’s positive outlook on the race, despite the setbacks, showed his resilience and determination.

+ + + +

Dubba Best and Germain Loochhausen both had unfortunate incidents during the race that led to them not being classified in the final standings.

Dubba Best (#20): Best had an issue with his car’s handling early in the race and struggled to get back into contention. He experienced mechanical failure during the final stage and was forced to retire from the race, effectively ending his hopes of finishing. Despite his efforts to repair the car and continue, it wasn’t possible, and he was not classified at the finish.

Germain Loochhausen (#21): Loochhausen had an unfortunate run-in with a lapped car during Stage 2, which severely damaged the front end of his truck. He spent several laps in the pits for repairs, but despite his efforts, the damage was too extensive to continue at full speed. After a lengthy repair session, Loochhausen was ultimately classified as retired from the race.

Both drivers will surely be looking to bounce back in the next race and avoid similar issues.

Dubba Best, visibly frustrated, expressed his disappointment in a post-race interview after the race at Homestead-Miami Speedway:
"It's just really tough, you know? We had been working so hard to get the car back into a good position. I was finally starting to push into the top 15 after some struggles early on," he began. "We were making up ground, and I thought we had a shot at something solid. Then, the mechanical failure hit in the final stage, and just like that, all the hard work went down the drain. We’ve been putting in so much effort, and it’s just frustrating that we couldn’t finish the job."

Despite the disappointment, Dubba showed optimism for the future. "I know we have a good team, and we’ll keep pushing forward. These things happen in racing, and all we can do is focus on what’s next. I’m determined to bounce back. We know we’ve got what it takes."

Though clearly upset about the outcome, Best’s resolve to stay positive and continue improving was clear in his words. Fans can expect him to come back even stronger next time.​

 

[Tommy Bedlam]

OOC: My truck for that Miami race is GORGEOUS!