19-year-old Chad Finley prepares for first ever visit to the legendary Winchester Speedway
DeWitt, MI (August 16, 2011) – The first trip to any race track in the country is always a little special to every driver who gets behind the wheel of a racecar. When that first visit is to a track like the legendary Winchester Speedway in Winchester, Indiana, those feelings of visiting a facility for the first time take on a whole new meaning.
The JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts gets back to racing after taking a couple of weekends off on Saturday, August 20th at the historic ½ (0.500) mile high-banked paved oval located approximately
90 minutes Northeast of Indianapolis for the running of the Winchester 100 Presented by JEGS.com. 19-year-old Chad Finley has been eagerly awaiting this event since the 2011 schedule was released over the winter.
“We’re really looking forward to Winchester. We needed that break to replace the engine and get reorganized.” Explained the DeWitt, Michigan driver. “We got a pin hole in the lower radiator hose at Rockford and overheated the engine pretty bad. I really would like to take the time to thank everyone at Phil Harper Motorsports. They worked really hard to get the engine back to us. We were out of options had they not done that.” He added. “Great people to work with and we are proud to be associated with them.”
“So now hopefully we can turn our luck around down there on the fast high-banks and find victory lane. The car has been real good, but we’ve had just a lot bad luck following us this season.” The Great Lakes State driver added. “We all want it bad so we are hoping the door will open for us very soon. What better place to win our first one in this series then at Winchester?” He asked.
In Finley’s last race within JEGS/CRA/GM was at Rockford Speedway in Loves Park, Illinois on July 30th for the running of the Stanley Steemer 100 Presented by JEGS.com. Finley qualified fourth quick out of 23 cars and after an inversion draw of an eight, he would start the 100-lap main from the inside of the third row next to former event winner and long-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series veteran, Rich Bickle Jr. The two drivers battled tooth and nail as they battled for second. .
Just past the halfway point, a tire went down on Finley’s #42 Auto Value Parts Stores Ford and he was forced to pit. On the restart, Finley made an impressive charge back up through the field and was battling with hometown favorite, Ryan Carlson for third when on lap 81, his power plant let go ending the night earlier than planned for the DeWitt, Michigan driver.
As the series heads to Winchester, Indiana, Finley sits third in the season long points chase as he is 65 markers back of current points leader, Eddie Hoffman and only 20 points behind Erik Jones (585-540-520). His #42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis with a Ford Fusion body and a crate motor from Phil Harper Motorsports carries sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net, and M.P.H. Promotions.
As for the remainder of the 2011 racing season, the next scheduled start for Finley in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is on Saturday, September 17th at the 1.5 mile high-banked d-shaped paved oval of Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois in the running of the Dollar General 300 Presented by Coca-Cola. The race will be televised LIVE on ESPN2 at 3:30p.m. His #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford will have sponsorship decals from; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers as well as the Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about additional sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour as well as limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and looking ahead to the 2012 campaign, log on to one of two websites: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports.com
Heartbreak at Rockford after multiple runs towards the front for 19-year-old Chad Finley
DeWitt, MI (August 3, 2011) – The JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts has proved after six events of the 11 scheduled that some of the best drivers in the country are vying for the win on any given night. The competition in the inaugural season for the Salem, Indiana based series is some of the fiercest seen in recent memory and Chad Finley is right in the middle of it all.
The fast 0.292 mile high-banked paved oval of Rockford Speedway in Loves Park, Illinois was the site for the next JEGS/CRA/GM race on July 30th for the running of the Stanley Steemer 100 Presented by JEGS.com is up next. Prior to this event, Finley has raced at the historic Prairie State oval before in the now defunct ASA Late Model Series and had hoped his experience there from back in the 2007 racing season will carry over four years later.
The experience at the historic Prairie State oval paid off for Finley who qualified fourth quick out of 23 cars. After an inversion draw of an eight, he would start the 100-lap main from the inside of the third row next to former event winner and long-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series veteran, Rich Bickle Jr. The two drivers battled tooth and nail as they worked their way up to second and third respectively.
Just past the halfway point, a tire went down on Finley’s #42 Auto Value Parts Stores Ford and he was forced to pit. On the restart, Finley made an impressive charge back up through the field and was battling with hometown favorite, Ryan Carlson for third when on lap 81, his power plant let go ending the night earlier than planned for the DeWitt, Michigan driver.
“This has to be the toughest and most hard fought day of my career,” Exclaimed Finley. “We lost the power steering and then the helmet blower went out 20 laps in. I really thought that we toughed it out and got up to second before the flat. After we pitted, we did the best we possibly could to get back up towards the front and after we got by Ryan (Carlson) for third, I began focusing on second place when the motor got hot and let go.”
“Definitely a heartbreaker for sure,” He continued. “But only the strong survive and we will be back. I’ve got to thank everyone on the crew. It was a hot day and night and we all worked really hard and had a great
race car. Man what a bummer. But we’ll be back and we’re heading to Winchester, so we’re right back at it in the shop and we’ll be ready for the high-banks.” Finley ended.
As the Salem, Indiana based series takes a couple of weekends off to regroup for the stretch run to close out the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Finley slipped to third in the season long points chase as he is 65 markers back of current points leader, Eddie Hoffman and only 20 points behind Erik Jones (585-540-520).
Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis with a Ford Fusion body and a crate motor from Phil Harper Motorsports carries sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net, and M.P.H. Promotions.
As for the remainder of the 2011 racing season, the next scheduled start for Finley in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is on Saturday, September 17th at the 1.5 mile high-banked d-shaped paved oval of Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois in the running of the Dollar General 300 Presented by Coca-Cola. The race will be televised LIVE on ESPN2 at 3:30p.m. His #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford will have sponsorship decals from; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers as well as the Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about additional sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour as well as limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and looking ahead to the 2010 campaign, log on to one of two websites: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports.com
Rockford Speedway and the Stanley Steemer 100 Presented by JEGS.om next for 19-year-old Chad Finley
DeWitt, MI (July, 28, 2011) – As the 2011 racing season stares at the month of August, there’s still some unfinished business left for 19-year-old Chad Finley in the month of July as he and his Chad Finley Racing (CFR) Team prepare for their next race of the inaugural season for the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts.
A date at the fast 0.292 mile high-banked paved oval of Rockford Speedway in Loves Park, Illinois on Saturday, July 30th for the running of the Stanley Steemer 100 Presented by JEGS.com is up next. Finley has raced at the historic Prairie State oval before in the now defunct ASA Late Model Series and hopes his experience there from back in the 2007 racing season will carry over four years later.
“We’re looking forward to Rockford. We raced there before when I was 15, so hopefully we can stay out of trouble and get a good solid run in.” Stated the DeWitt, Michigan driver, “After Illiana, where we had such an awesome car, I am ready for some good luck. We were better than our 10th place finish there. These guys at CFR work way too hard to be denied a win this season, so will see how it goes.” He added.
Heading into the Prairie State, Finley remains second in the chase for the inaugural series championship, but now sits 52 markers back of series points leader Hoffman (493-441). In addition, Finley leads a pack of teams in the points that are separated by just 23 points from Finley all the way back to seventh place Claude Plante Jr.
Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis with a Ford Fusion body and a crate motor from Phil Harper Motorsports carries sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net, and M.P.H. Promotions.
Looking down the road at the remainder of the 2011 racing season, the next scheduled start for Finley in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is on Saturday, September 17th at the 1.5 mile high-banked d-shaped paved oval of Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois in the running of the Dollar General 300 Presented by Coca-Cola. The race will be televised LIVE on ESPN2 at 3:30p.m.
His #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford will have sponsorship decals from; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers as well as the Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about additional sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour as well as limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and looking ahead to the 2010 campaign, log on to one of two websites: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports.com
Top 10 finish at Illiana keeps Chad Finley in second place in the chase for the inaugural JEGS/CRA title
DeWitt, MI (July, 20, 2011) – As the 2011 racing season has passed the ½ way point, Chad Finley knows there’s still more work yet to be done in the chase for the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tours’ first ever Championship title chase. The series, in its maiden season, has provided fans around the Midwest with some of the most competitive racing in the country.
Finley and the Chad Finley Racing (CFR) Team ventured down to the Chicagoland area and the second consecutive make-up race for the Salem, Indiana based series. This time, it was the Illiana 100 Presented by JEGS.com on July 16th at Illiana Motor Speedway in Schererville, Indiana. This race was originally scheduled for May 14th, but Mother Nature intervened back on May 14th and forced JEGS/CRA Officials to reschedule this event at the ½ (0.500) mile semi-banked paved oval.
After Qualifying sixth fastest out of the 21 cars on the grounds, Finley missed the inversion, which was a four, and would start the 100-lap main from the outside of the third row next to Josh Nelms. After working his way up to as high as third, contact with Brandon Watson while racing for second caused handling problems for Finley’s machine resulting in a severe loose condition the rest of the way. In the end, Finley finished 10th while points leader, Eddie Hoffman would end up winning his second race of the season.
“Illiana ended up being a pretty tough race for us. We were really good off the truck and had a great qualifying run. From the drop of the green I felt like we had a dominant car,” Remarked the 19-year-old after the race. “We got up to the top three and was battling for second with the #9 car (Brandon Watson). He lost it or something and hit us and got me in the wall and knocked the toe out and broke off the rear spoiler. That messed up our night for sure.” He added.
“We were wicked loose the rest of the way. It’s really unfortunate all my guys at CFR work extremely hard and we do a lot with very little. I hate that we lost so many points to Eddie (Hoffman) but we aren’t going to give up and were going to keep trying to win races and go about doing it the right way. We will be back.” The DeWitt, Michigan driver ended.
The next race on the JEGS/CRA schedule is a date at the fast 0.292 mile high-banked paved oval of Rockford Speedway in Loves Park, Illinois on Saturday, July 30th for the running of the Stanley Steemer 100 Presented by JEGS.com. Heading into the Prairie State, Finley remains second in the chase for the inaugural series championship, but now sits 52 markers back of series points leader Hoffman (493-441). In addition, Finley leads a pack of teams in the points that are separated by just 23 points from Finley all the way back to seventh place Claude Plante Jr.
Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis with a Ford Fusion body and a crate motor from Phil Harper Motorsports carries sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net, M.P.H. Promotions, and Chad Finley Racing.
The next scheduled start for Finley in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is on Saturday, September 17th at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois. His #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford will have decals from; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers as well as the Airlift Company, Rain
Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about additional sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour as well as limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, and looking ahead to the 2010 campaign, log on to one of two websites: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports.com
19-year-old Chad Finley moves into second place in the chase for the Inaugural JEGS/CRA Title
DeWitt, MI (July, 13, 2011) – Chad Finley knew he’d have his work cut out for him in the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tours’ return trip to Anderson Speedway in Anderson, Indiana for the rescheduled Anderson 100 Presented by JEGS.com on Saturday, July 9th. Qualifying was completed back on June 4th, but Mother Nature intervened and pushed the race to July 9th. Back on June 4th, Finley Qualified 12th and after waiting over a month, the 19-year-old would start the race from the outside of the sixth row.
“The month off from Anderson was a good thing for us. When we left here last month we were not as good as we needed to be. Crew Chief Jimmy D. (Smith) and all the boys at CFR (Chad Finley Racing) worked extremely hard to get us better then what we were in the first visit. It was nice to have the test on Friday as it really helped us out for Saturday.” The DeWitt, Michigan driver remarked. “Our Howe Racing Enterprises Ford was really good during the race but track position was key and it hurt us starting back in 12th.” He added.
As Finley has done all season long, he persevered through the 100-lap main event and after all was said and done, would come out of the ¼ mile bull ring in Central Indiana with a respectable seventh place finish. “We came out of there in one piece and head to Illiana with a few scratches on the car and that’s a great thing.” Finley continued. “We had some carburetor problems the last part of the race and that really hurt us. I think we gained a few points tonight even though we have a long ways to go this season”
The seventh place finish was well earned as the Great Lakes State teenager felt pressure over the last part of the century grind from current JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Points Leader, Eddie Hoffman. “It was all I could do to hold off Eddie at the end there. We raced each other really clean there for 25 laps. I’m really proud of everyone at CFR and thankful for all of the people that make this happen. We are just going to keep chipping away and be there at the end of the season.” He ended.
The next race on the JEGS/CRA Schedule is another make-up event as the Illiana 100 Presented by JEGS.com is set for Saturday, July 16th at Illiana Motor Speedway in Schererville, Indiana. This race was originally scheduled for May 14th, but just like the Anderson race, Mother Nature intervened and forced
JEGS/CRA Officials to reschedule this event at the Chicagoland ½ (0.500) mile semi-banked paved oval.
Heading into the Illiana 100 Presented by JEGS.com, Finley now sits in second place in the chase for the Inaugural JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Championship as he is just 27 markers behind Hoffman (388-361). For the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis outfitted with a Ford Fusion body and a crate motor from Phil Harper Motorsports carries sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net, and M.P.H. Promotions.
The next scheduled start for Finley in the NASCAR Nationwide Series is on Saturday, September 17th at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois. His #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford will have decals from; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers as well as the Airlift Company, Rain
Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about additional sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour as well as limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, log on to one of two websites:
www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports.com
A Trip Back to Anderson Speedway for 19-year-old Chad Finley for Rescheduled JEGS/CRA race
DeWitt, MI (July, 6, 2011) – After taking a couple of weekends off from racing to reflect on his future in the NASCAR Nationwide Series as well as his quest for the inaugural 2011 JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Championship, 19-year-old Chad Finley and his Chad Finley Racing (CFR) Team are refreshed and ready to take on the second half of the 2011 racing season.
The next JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour race for CFR is a return trip to Anderson Speedway in Anderson, Indiana for the rescheduled Anderson 100 Presented by JEGS.com on Saturday, July 9th. Keyser Manufacturing Qualifying was completed back on June 4th, but Mother Nature intervened and pushed the race to July 9th. Back on June 4th, Finley Qualified 12th and will start the race from the outside of the sixth row.
“We’re looking forward to getting back to racing. (Crew Chief) Jimmy D. (Smith) and all the CFR guys are doing what we need to do to find victory lane. The open test at Anderson (On Friday, July 8th) is a big plus for us to help get dialed in.” Finley explained. “When we left there back in June, I felt like we needed to be much better, so this will get us in that direction I hope.” He added.
Heading into Anderson, Finley is sitting third in the series points standings, just 19 back of Erik Jones who is in second. Eddie Hoffman is the points leader and holds down a 10-point lead over Jones and a 29-point advantage over Finley who has an eight point lead over fourth place Claude Plante Jr. (304-286-275-266).
Finley’s #42 Auto Value-Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers / AutoParts2020.com / Rain Eater Wiper Blades Ford Fusion will have a slightly different look to it when it arrives in Anderson, Indiana; “We have moved AutoParts2020.com to the quarter panels for the remainder of the year so maybe that will be our good luck charm.” He added.
“We just can’t thank AutoParts2020.com enough as well as Auto Value-Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers for their continued support. We also launched the Rain Eater Wiper Blades promotion last week as well. So please check my web site (www.chadfinleyracing.com) and get out to your local Auto Value store and get some quality blades and help support our efforts.” Finley smiled.
In Finley’s last JEGS/CRA race at Dixie Motor Speedway in Birch Run, Michigan back on June 17th, and after getting to the track to late to practice due to his attempted debut in the NASCAR Nationwide Series race down at Michigan International Speedway, Finley relied on his experience on the 4/10s (0.400) mile progressively banked d-shaped paved oval to lock into the field seventh quick out of 25 cars and when Keyser Manufacturing Fast Qualifier, Jones drew a seven for the inversion, Finley would start the 100-lap main from the pole.
He would lead the first 12 laps before eventual winner, Hoffman got by on lap 13. After contact late in the race between Hoffman and Jones who were battling for the lead with just three laps to go, Finley slid by Jones and offered up a late challenge to Hoffman, but in the end settled for his second straight podium finish in JEGS/CRA competition with a second place showing.
As for his JEGS/CRA machine and for the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis outfitted with a Ford Fusion body and a crate motor from Phil Harper Motorsports carries sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net, and M.P.H. Promotions.
Finley’s NASCAR Nationwide Series efforts continue on Saturday, September 17th at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois. His #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford is sporting decals from; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, who have over 5000 locations throughout North America offering quality auto parts and first class dependable service. Also supporting Finley’s NASCAR Nationwide Series efforts are the Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
To learn more about Chad and to inquire about sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour as well as his limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, log on to their websites at: www.chadfinleyracing.com andwww.teamrensimotorsports.com
Chad Finley goes from Heartbreak (MIS) to the Podium (Dixie) with a second place finish
DeWitt, Michigan (Monday, June 20th, 2011): The busiest day of 19-year-old Chad Finley’s career was on Friday, June 17th as the day started off at the Two-Mile Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan for the NASCAR Nationwide Series and ended with the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour event, the Dixie 100 Presented by JEGS.com at Dixie Motor Speedway in Birch Run, Michigan.
On Friday afternoon at MIS, Finley was hoping to shake down his #25 Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers Ford for Team Rensi Motorsports (TRM). After timing in 27th fastest out of the 46 entries in the first session, the DeWitt, Michigan driver was turning laps in the second session and was up to 17th when the car suddenly got away from him and Finley ended up smacking the turn four wall hard. He was ok, but the car was done for the weekend and Finley’s NASCAR Nationwide Series debut will now be on September 17th at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Illinois.
“It was not the weekend we had hoped for in the Nationwide car. We were working on it and making some very nice gains as we were pretty tight in the early going. Then she just broke loose on me in the middle of turns three and four and I ended up in the wall,” Explained Finley. “I just feel terrible for TRM and all our sponsors. Everyone on the team worked very hard for me to make this all happen. They were very supportive afterwards and that meant a lot. Good group here and that’s what I need”
The crash forced Finley and the TRM crew to withdraw from the Alliance Truck Parts 250, which was won the next day by Carl Edwards. “We will get there as a team though,” Continued the 19-year-old driver. “I felt like we worked together very well and I learned a lot in our time in the car. “We’ll just hold our heads up high and start over again.” Finley stated.
After the incident, Finley and his Father, Michigan Motorsports Hall of Famer, Jeff Finley made the two hour trip north to Dixie, located north of Flint, Michigan for the third JEGS/CRA race of the season. After getting to the track to late to practice, Finley relied on his experience on the 4/10s (0.400) mile progressively banked d-shaped paved oval to lock into the field seventh quick out of 25 cars and when Keyser Manufacturing Fast Qualifier, 15-year-old Erik Jones drew a seven for the inversion, Finley would start the 100-lap main from the pole.
“The JEGS/CRA car was really good. Got there just in time to Qualify and put her seventh. I have to thank Leo Smith for his help practicing the car for me.” He continued. Finley would lead the first 12 laps before eventual winner, Eddie Hoffman, the current series point’s leader, got by on lap 13. After contact late in the race between Hoffman and Jones who were battling for the lead with just three laps to go, Finley slid by Jones and offered up a late challenge to Hoffman, but in the end settled for his second straight podium finish in JEGS/CRA competition with a second place showing.
“We led some laps and got her home second with a chance to win. Sure picked my spirits up from the day I just had at MIS that’s for sure.” He smiled. “I need to thank all of the crew with the CFR team. They’re a great bunch of people to work with and that’s what it takes. We’ll win one of these JEGS/CRA races before too long.” He ended.
The next JEGS/CRA race equals a trip back to Anderson Speedway in Anderson, Indiana for the rescheduled Anderson 100 Presented by JEGS.com on Saturday, July 9th. Keyser Manufacturing Qualifying was already completed back on June 4th, but Mother Nature intervened and pushed the race to July 9th. Back on June 4th, Finley Qualified 12th and will start the race from the outside of the sixth row.
Heading into Anderson, Finley is now sitting third in the series point’s standings, just 19 markers back of Jones who is in second. Hoffman is the point’s leader and holds down a 10-point lead on Jones and a 29-point advantage over Finley who has an eight point lead over fourth place Claude Plante Jr. (304-294-275-266).
Sporting decals on the side of the NASCAR Nationwide Series machine, the #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford are; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, who have over 5000 locations throughout North America offering quality auto parts and first class dependable service. Also supporting Finley’s NASCAR Nationwide Series debut are the Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
As for his JEGS/CRA machine and for the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis, sporting a Ford Fusion body with power from a Phil Harper Crate Engine will carry sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net and M.P.H. Promotions.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour as well as his limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, log on to their websites at: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports.com
Biggest Weekend of 19-year-old Chad Finley’s Life is Here!
DeWitt, MI (June 14, 2011) – To say that the upcoming Fathers Day Weekend is a huge weekend for 19-year-old Chad Finley would be an understatement. Not only will it be very busy racing in two events at two different facilities, the two tracks couldn’t be further from opposites and the two cars that Finley will be driving are at the most opposite ends of the spectrum one could imagine.
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| Chad Finley is set to make his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut This Saturday, June 18th at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan in the running of the Alliance Truck Parts 250. (Chad Finley Racing Photo) |
It all begins on Friday, June 17th with by far the busiest day of the DeWitt, Michigan drivers’ career as he’ll be at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan first thing in the morning for Tech Inspection and Practice for the Alliance Truck Parts 250 for the NASCAR Nationwide Series as Finley will be looking to make his debut in NASCAR’s second series the following day.
While he’ll be behind the wheel of the #25 Auto Value – Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers / AutoParts2020.com Ford for Team Rensi Motorsports (TRM) turning laps in Practice around the huge 2.0 mile oval in the Irish Hills, his own Chad Finley Racing (CFR) JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour machine will be sitting in the pit area preparing for the third JEGS/CRA event of the 2011 racing season; The Dixie 100 Presented by JEGS.com at Dixie Motor Speedway in Birch Run, Michigan
With Practice on-going at M.I.S., Finley won’t be able to shake down his JEGS/CRA machine, the #42 Rain Eater Wiper Blades / AutoParts2020.com Ford at Dixie during JEGS/CRA Practice. So veteran Pro Late Model standout, Leo Smith will be behind the wheel of Finley’s JEGS/CRA ride during Practice with Finley expected to make the nearly two hour trip from Brooklyn to Birch Run, Michigan in time for Keyser Manufacturing Qualifying.
“Friday will be lot of fun. Both TRM and CFR crews have worked really hard for this day. We got things worked out to where hopefully I can make it to Dixie in time to just jump in and qualify.” The excited DeWitt, Michigan stand out remarked. “I can’t thank JEGS/CRA and Dixie Officials enough for working with us on trying to make all of this happen. I am very focused on both tasks at hand here to make a very special weekend for us all” He added.
Heading into Dixie, a 4/10s (0.400) mile progressively banked d-shaped paved oval, Finley sits a solid fourth in the JEGS/CRA points standings, just 21 markers out of the points lead currently held by veteran Eddie Hoffman. Finley is coming off an impressive third place finish at Columbus Motor Speedway in Columbus, Ohio in the CoughlinCars.com 100 Presented by JEGS.com back over the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend on Saturday May 28th.
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| Chad Finley races in the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour. (CGphotos.net Photo) |
The JEGS/CRA did travel to Anderson Speedway in Anderson, Indiana the following weekend; Saturday, June 4th, for the Anderson 100 Presented by JEGS.com, but after Qualifying 12th, the Anderson 100 Presented by JEGS.com was postponed to Saturday July 9th due to weather in the area right after Keyser Manufacturing Qualifying.
As for the NASCAR Nationwide Series race at M.I.S., and in an ironic twist, when he gets behind the wheel of the Team Rensi Motorsports ride over the Fathers Day weekend, he will follow in his father, Michigan Motorsports Hall of Fame Driver, Jeff Finley’s footsteps. The elder Finley also made his first NASCAR Nationwide Series start with Ed Rensi at the season opener at Daytona International Speedway back in 1999 (When the series was still known as the NASCAR Busch Series)
“My dad drove for Ed Rensi and we’ve known him and (President) Ronnie Russell since 1998 and have a great relationship,” The 19-year-old explained. “Ed has helped me throughout my career and we were able to put together some sponsorship with Auto Value who has also been with me every step of the way as well.” Finley is no stranger to the Brooklyn, Michigan speed plant as he finished seventh in an ARCA Racing Series Presented by Menards event there in 2010. “It’s home and we felt like it would be a really good place to start,” he added. “I just can’t thank everyone enough for making all of this happen.”
The Alliance Truck Parts 250 will see Qualifying getting underway on Saturday, June 18th at 11:10a.m. With 46 teams entered, Finley will have to earn his way into the show on his Qualifying time since Team Rensi Motorsports in currently not in the top 30 in NASCAR Nationwide Series Owners Points. Finley will look to be one of the 43 starters who will take the green flag LIVE on ABC starting at 3:30p.m.
Sporting decals on the side of the #25 Team Rensi Motorsports Ford at M.I.S., will be; Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, who have over 5000 locations throughout North America offering quality auto parts and first class dependable service. Also supporting Finley’s NASCAR Nationwide Series debut are the Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, and AutoParts2020.com.
As for his JEGS/CRA machine and for the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis, sporting a Ford Fusion body with power from a Phil Harper Crate Engine will carry sponsorship from; Rain Eater Wiper Blades, as well as AutoParts2020.com, Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net and M.P.H. Promotions.
To learn more about Chad and to inquire about sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the /CRA All-Stars Tour as well as his limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, log on to their websites at: www.chadfinleyracing.com andwww.teamrensimotorsports.com
Chad Finley Finishes Third at Columbus. Prepares for Anderson and a Busy June Schedule of Events
DeWitt, MI (June 1, 2011) - Perseverance and dedication are two traits that all race car drivers have in their repertoire. After a subpar Qualifying effort and having to go to the back of the field twice, Chad Finley’s determination was rewarded over the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend in Columbus, Ohio in the running of the CoughlinCars.com 100 Presented by JEGS.com.
The 1/3 (0.333) mile semi-banked paved oval of Columbus Motor Speedway
in the Buckeye States’ capital city on Saturday, May 28th was the sight for race number two in the inaugural season for the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts. After running second quick in Practice, the DeWitt, Michigan driver struggled in Qualifying and would time in 18th quick.
“What a day at Columbus!” We rolled off the truck really good in practice. In qualifying we where third out and the track was real greasy and we struggled there and found our tire stagger opened up a bunch.” Explained the 19-year-old. “We fixed that and was coming up through there and got turned around from behind. Then we spun out again, so to the back of the field we went.” He added.
So Finley would start all over again and charged through the field and got up to third and right on the back bumper of Eddie Hoffman who was running in second. On the white flag lap, Finley made a daring move going to the outside of Hoffman and race leader, Jimmy Carter making it three-wide going into the corner on the final lap. Carter got a good run off of the corner leaving Hoffman and Finley to battle for second. Hoffman just nipped Finley at the line giving Finley a third place finish.
“Double file restarts were very tough! Columbus is a hard place to pass, but I wanted to give the fans a good show. I figured I’ve done all this work to get up to the front, might as well go all the way,” He explained. “I’m very proud of everyone at Chad Finley Racing, we never gave up and it was a good solid effort. Plus we moved up in the points too.” He ended. Finley advanced from eighth to fourth in the season long points chase and picked up a slew of post-race contingency awards from the series.
In addition to his JEGS/CRA/GM schedule, Finley is preparing for his debut in the NASCAR Nationwide Series at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan on Saturday, June 18th in the running of the Alliance Truck Parts 250. Finley will be racing for Team Rensi Motorsports (TRM) and will be behind the wheel of the #25 Ford Mustang for Ed Rensi and the rest of TRM team.
For the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis, sporting a Ford Fusion body and power from a Phil Harper Crate Engine in the JEGS/CRA/GM series, will carry sponsorship from; AutoParts2020.com, as well as Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net and M.P.H. Promotions.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about sponsorship within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts as well as his limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, log on to their websites at: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports
JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour and Columbus Motor Speedway up next for 19-year-old Chad Finley
DeWitt, Michigan (Thursday, May 26th, 2011): Chad Finley has been patiently waiting to get back behind the wheel of his #42 Chad Finley Racing (CFR) Ford Fusion he races in the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts. The first race was back on April 23rd and after a rain out on May 14th, he finally gets to race again over the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend.
The next race on the JEGS/CRA/GM schedule for Finley and his CFR Team will be on Saturday, May 28th in the running of the CoughlinCars.com 100 Presented by JEGS.com at the 1/3 (0.333) mile semi-banked paved oval of Columbus Motor Speedway in the Buckeye States’ capital city of Columbus, Ohio.
“All the rain up there has been tough to take. I’ve really wanted to get back behind the wheel of our CFR Ford,” The 19-year-old stated. “We did some testing last week and learned a few things. I know all the guys have been working hard on the car, so we need to get some racing in.” He added.
An eighth place finish in the series’ inaugural race at Toledo Speedway in Toledo, Ohio back on April 23rd has Finley and his entire Chad Finley Racing Team optimistic heading into what is now race #2 for the series. The Illiana Motor Speedway in Schererville, Indiana was to be the second race of the year on May 14th, but that show was rained out and postponed to Saturday, July 16th. So now it’s onto Columbus, Ohio for the CoughlinCars.com 100 Presented by JEGS.com.
In addition to his JEGS/CRA/GM schedule, Finley’s time has not been without preparation as he gets ready for his debut in the NASCAR Nationwide Series at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan on Saturday, June 18th in the running of the Alliance Truck Parts 250. Finley will be racing for Team Rensi Motorsports (TRM) and will be behind the wheel of the #25 Ford Mustang for Ed Rensi and the rest of TRM team.
“I’ve been at TRM putting the seat in and helping the guys on the Nationwide car for the big day at MIS.” The DeWitt, Michigan native continued. “We’re testing that car next week and I’m very excited to get behind the wheel of that car as well. So I’ve been busy for sure, just not racing like we had hoped so far this summer.” He ended.
For the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis, sporting a Ford Fusion body and power from a Phil Harper Crate Engine in the JEGS/CRA/GM series, will carry sponsorship from; AutoParts2020.com, as well as Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net and M.P.H. Promotions.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts as well as his limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, log on to their websites at: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.teamrensimotorsports.com
19-year-old Chad Finley Hopes his First Appearance at Illiana Results in a Good Finish
DeWitt, Michigan (May 10, 2011) – With some down time to reflect on his first race with the new JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts; The VR-12 Easter Bunny 100 Presented by JEGS.com at Toledo Speedway in Toledo, Ohio back on April 23rd, 19-year-old Chad Finley knows that with more seat time and more bonding with his new Crew Chief, Jimmy D. Smith, a
win is not too far off in the distant future.
“Looking forward to getting back in the JEGS/CRA car. With what we learned in our down time, I feel like we will have an awesome race car for Illiana,” Stated the 19-year-old. “The guys been working really hard on this car and to get Chad Finley Racing (CFR) where we need to be. I have been told Illiana is a flat race track with very low grip. I like those kinds of tracks so hopefully all the stars align for us that night. We will see. If not it won’t be from lack of effort that’s for sure.” He added.
The next race on the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts schedule for Finley and his CFR Team will be on Saturday, May 14th in the running of the Illiana 100 Presented by JEGS.com at the ½ (0.500) mile semi-banked paved oval of Illiana Motor Speedway in Schererville, Indiana in the heart of the Chicagoland region of the country.
“We had a good run for our first time out with a brand new car with no previous testing or anything. We got the car late and we had lots of obstacles to overcome just to make it to Toledo,” Explained the DeWitt, Michigan native. ”I’m very proud of all the guys at CFR. Jimmy D., did an awesome job with the set up. We were close in the last practice and I really thought we had a top five car and the way things ended maybe a top three car.”
In addition to the 2011 JEGS/CRA/GM schedule, Finley will make his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut with Team Rensi Motorsports on Saturday, June 18th at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan. In the meantime, Finley and his team will place their efforts and resources into running the Inaugural JEGS/CRA/GM Series for the Salem, Indiana based series and stay sharp behind the wheel while awaiting his Nationwide races.
For the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis, sporting a Ford Fusion body and power from a Phil Harper Crate Engine, will carry sponsorship from; AutoParts2020.com, as well as Auto Value / Bumper to Bumper Parts Stores & Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, NorthsideTowing.net, M.P.H. Promotions, and Chad Finley Racing.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about sponsorship within the organization for the remainder of the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts as well as limited appearances in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, log on to his website at: www.chadfinleyracing.com
Eighth Place Finish at Toledo has 19-year-old Chad Finley optimistic heading to Illiana on May 14th
DeWitt, MI (April 27, 2011) – A stout 39-car field graced Toledo Speedway in Toledo, Ohio for the Inaugural race for the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts; The VR-12 Easter Bunny 100 Presented by JEGS.com. For 19-year-old Chad Finley, he knew he’d have his work cut out for him to even make the show against a stacked field on the grounds at the historic Buckeye State oval.
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| Chad Finley – (Chuck Gonzalez Photo) |
Finley responded immediately by qualifying eighth fastest and solidly locking himself into the show. An adventurous race which featured two red flags was the story of the night. However after all was said and done and despite some body damage to the car, the 19-year-old finished where he started in eighth place.
“We had a good run for our first time out with a brand new car with no previous testing or anything. We got the car late and we had lots of obstacles to overcome just to make it to Toledo,” Explained the DeWitt, Michigan native. ”I’m very proud of all the guys at Chad Finley Racing (CFR). (Crew Chief) Jimmy D. Smith did an awesome job with the set up. We were close in the last practice and I really thought we had a top five car and the way things ended maybe a top three car.”
Early in the race, Finley rocketed up to as high as fourth in the early going of the 100-lap main. “We got tight and hurt the right front tire.” Continued Finley. “We ended up with a vibration just past half way, so we started to ride to the finish. Big thanks to all of our sponsors. With out there help we simply could not do this. Just six weeks ago we didn’t even have a car and we weren’t even sure if we would make it to Toledo! Saturday was actually the first day we had the car on the track anywhere! The car was pretty good in race trim and we’re only going to get better. We won’t stop working until we get it right.” He ended.
The next race on the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts schedule for Finley and his Chad Finley Racing Team will be on Saturday, May 14th in the running of the Illiana 100 Presented by JEGS.com at the ½ (0.500) mile semi-banked paved oval of Illiana Motor Speedway in Schererville, Indiana.
In addition to the 2011 JEGS/CRA/GM schedule, Finley will make his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut with Team Rensi Motorsports later in the season which allows Finley and his team to place their efforts and resources into running the Inaugural JEGS/CRA/GM Series for the Salem, Indiana based series and stay sharp behind the wheel while awaiting his Nationwide races.
For the 2011 racing season, Finley’s No. 42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis, sporting a Ford Fusion body and power from a Phil Harper Crate Engine, will carry sponsorship from; AutoParts2020.com, as well as Auto Value Parts Stores and Certified Service Centers, Airlift Company, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, Northside Towing.net, Joe Gibbs Driven Racing Oil, M.P.H. Promotions, and Chad Finley Racing.
To learn more about Chad and to inquire about sponsorship within the organization for the 2011 Racing Season within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts, log on to his website at: www.chadfinleyracing.com
Dominique Van Wieringen Wins 2011 Rookie of the Year & Most Improved Awards at Spartan Speedway
DeWitt, Michigan (Wednesday, September 28th, 2011): 16-year-old Dominique Van Wieringen, a Development Driver for Chad Finley Racing (CFR) and Michigan Motorsports Hall of Famer, Jeff Finley, showed the racing world that it is possible to make the huge leap from the World Karting Association (WKA) to the high-powered Outlaw Bodied Super Late Models division during the 2011 racing season.
Prior to the start of the year, Van Wieringen joined forces with CFR and the combination was rewarded with a fifth place finish overall in the season long points chase as well as sharing the 2011 Rookie of the Year title with fellow rookie, Scott Sigman while also winning the 2011 Most Improved Driver Award at the fast ¼ (0.250) mile semi-banked paved oval of Spartan Speedway, located south of Lansing in Mason, Michigan. Looking back on the 2011 campaign, Van Wieringen has plenty to be thankful for.
“The first thing I need to do is thank Durobyte.com and my Family. To get the chance to do the things I have up to now is truly amazing to me.” Remarked the Amherstburg, Ontario / Canada driver. “I’m very grateful for all the opportunities my Dad and Mom have been able to acquire for me in motorsports. Every since I was a little girl and up to now have been things I’ve dreamed about wanting to do.”
The 16-year-old continued; “I can’t thank the entire CFR crew for all of their hard work this year. They really helped me and built my confidence up and taught me a lot throughout the whole year. My achievements are a direct reflection of who they are and what they are about. Jeff and Chad Finley have been around me and my family for a while and have always been good friends and supporters. Jeff has been down all these roads before and brings so much experience to the team it is just great.” She ended.
The highlight of her rookie season was in only her sixth career start behind the wheel of a full bodied racecar and on that memorable Friday night, July 15th, she would fight off two-time track champion, Jimmy Gallagher to score her first career feature win and become just the second female in the tracks long and storied history to win a Feature in the tracks premiere division since Barb Beurmann accomplished the feat back in 1982, 29 years previous! In 10 starts, she has one Feature Win as well as three top five finishes and six top 10s.
“All of us at CFR are very proud of her accomplishments this year. Honestly we didn’t know what to expect coming into the year.” Added Car Owner and Michigan Motorsports Hall of Fame member, Jeff Finley. “I met her family through go-kart racing and have watched her for some time now. Her Dad and I got to talking one day and then here we were racing together. For her to go to victory lane this year and win these awards shows her dedication to becoming a great race car driver. We are honored to have her be a part of our development program and look forward to the future with her.” Finley ended.
Throughout the year and on off weekends from driving the Outlaw Super, Van Wieringen also raced one of her two MRP Motorsports Birel Racing Go-Karts as the 2011 season is her final year of racing the National circuit in the World Karting Association (WKA) series where she is one of the top drivers in the circuit. She began her racing career at just five years old as she started out in racing of the two-wheeled variety, in Motocross. She spent six seasons on motorcycles before moving into four-wheeled racing and went Go-Kart racing where she continues to be one of the top competitors within the WKA.
Looking ahead to the 2012 racing season, the Canadian teenager will participate in more Outlaw Super Late Model shows while also racing in 3-5 races within the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts with her sights set on going after the Howie Lettow Memorial Rookie of the Year Presented by Howe Racing Enterprises, which is awarded to the top freshman in the JEGS/CRA/GM series, in 2013.
During the 2011 campaign, Van Wieringen’s #95 Outlaw Super Late Model with a Chevrolet Camaro front nose, had sponsorship decals from DuroByte Inc., as well as NorthsideTowing.net, M.P.H. Promotions, and Chad Finley Racing. To learn more about Dominique Van Wieringen and to inquire about sponsorship opportunities for the 2012 racing season, go to her webpage within the Chad Finley Racing Website at: www.chadfinleyracing.com
18-year-old Chad Finley to make a run at the Inaugural 2011 JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts Championship
DeWitt, Michigan (Thursday, March 10th, 2011) – With only Seven (7) starts during the 2010 Racing Season within what is now known as the ARCA Racing Series Presented by Menards, 18-year-old Chad Finley proved in a short amount of time that he was a force to be reckoned with driving for Brad Keselowski Racing (BKR)
The DeWitt, Michigan driver, who turns 19 on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, has had a busy off season starting in November when his Father, the legendary, Jeff Finley was inducted into the Michigan 
Motorsports Hall of Fame. Once the holiday season had come and gone and the calendar turned over to 2011, Finley’s
plans took a dramatic turn resulting in something potentially special for the young rising star.
For the 2011 racing season, the Finley Family has purchased a brand new Howe Racing Enterprises chassis outfitted with a Ford Fusion body and a Phil Harper Motorsports Crate Motor with the intent of running for the Inaugural 2011 JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts Championship!
In addition to the 2011 JEGS/CRA/GM schedule, Finley will make his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut with Team Rensi Motorsports later in the season which allows Finley and his team to place their efforts and resources solely into running the full schedule and competing for the Inaugural JEGS/CRA/GM Series Championship for the Salem, Indiana based
series and stay sharp behind the wheel.
“I can’t wait to get back to racing. It has been a long winter that has brought many new changes and exciting things to Chad Finley Racing for 2011.” Stated the Great Lakes State pilot. “I’ve always had a lot of respect for CRA and I’ve always had a passion for short track racing and my Dad has given me the opportunity to get back to my roots and let me go racing with all the CRA guys.”
His quest for the
JEGS/CRA/GM Championship begins on Friday and Saturday, April 22-23rd at the famed ½ (0.500) mile high-banked paved oval of Toledo Speedway, located just South of the Michigan / Ohio state line in Toledo, Ohio for the running of the JEGS 100.
Finley will also come armed with a new Crew Chief in Jimmy D. Smith, who calls Corunna, Michigan home and worked with 14-year-old Erik Jones during the 2010 racing season in the now defunct ASA Late Model Series as Car Chief. Jones would go onto capture Two Wins and won the Rookie of the Year title in that series.
“Jimmy D., brings a lot of knowledge and competiveness to this new race team and he and I have a great relationship that I believe will rocket us to success.” Finley added. We’re just thrilled that he’s with us so we can make a serious run at the 2011 JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts Championship.”
“Jimmy and Chad have great chemistry built between them before we ever leave the shop!” Added Car Owner and Chad’s Father, Jeff Finley. “We feel this will help expedite finding victory lane as well as being competitive right out of the box. Jimmy and I are old friends who raced together back in the 90s in Super Late Models at Owosso Speedway (In Ovid, Michigan) and we feel this is the right move for our team.”
“I’m really looking forward to working with Chad and all of the guys with Chad Finley Racing. I’m thankful for the opportunity that the Finley’s have provided.” Stated new Crew Chief, Jimmy D. Smith. “Most of the race tracks on the schedule we have been too so I believe that will speed up our learning curve as a first year team. Right now our team is building a brand new Howe car for Toledo, I am looking to build off the success I had there in 2010.” He added.
“I want to thank Airlift, Rain Eater Wiper Blades, Northsidetowing.net, autoparts2020.com, and Auto Value Certified Service Centers for coming on board for this 2011 Campaign.” The younger Finley ended.
Finley is no stranger to the Template Bodied / Crate Motor world as he made several appearances in the now defunct ASA Late Model Series as well as the Super Pro Late Model Series, scoring a popular Win at his home track of Spartan Speedway in Mason, Michigan in Super Pro competition in 2008. He also scored several Top Five’s and Top 10 finishes in both series’ over a three-year span from 2006-2008.
In 2009 and 2010, he ran a limited schedule in what is now known as the ARCA Racing Series Presented by Menards and made the most of those limited appearances. In 2009, he scored One Pole Award at Rockingham, one Top Five finish, a third at Berlin Raceway, three Top 10 showings and all four starts he made during the 2009 campaign in ARCA resulted in at least a Top 15.
In 2010 and in seven starts within ARCA, Finley recorded Two Top Five finishes with his season high third place showing twice and tying his career high finish for the second and third time of his brief ARCA career as his latest podium showing came at the fast One (1) Mile High-Banked Paved Oval of the Rockingham Speedway in Rockingham, North Carolina in the 2010 Season Finale back on October 9th.
His other 2010 Top Five came in the Messina Wildlife Stopper 200 at the biggest track he’s ever raced on; The 2.5 mile triangular paved oval of the Pocono International Raceway in Pocono, Pennsylvania back on June 5th, 2010. His first career Podium showing of a Third came at the smallest track on the ARCA schedule, the Berlin Raceway in Marne, Michigan back in the 2009 racing season.
Other notable finishes for Finley in ARCA competition during the 2010 season includes an 11th place finish in the Rattlesnake 100 at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas on April 16th, 2010, and a seventh place finish in the Racing for Wildlife 200 at the track on the ARCA Schedule closest to his home in DeWitt, Michigan, the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan on June 11th, 2010.
Overall, in 11 career ARCA Starts between 2009 and 2010, Finley has Three Top Five finishes, all of them Podium finishes of Third, as well as Six Top 10 showings along-with Nine Top 15s while also scoring One Menards Pole Award, which came at Rockingham in the 2009 Season Finale.
For the 2011 racing season, Finley’s #42 Howe Racing Enterprises chassis, sporting a Ford Fusion body and power from a Phil Harper Crate Engine, will carry sponsorship from; Airliftcompany.com as well as Rain Eater Wiper Blades, Northsidetowing.net, Auto Value Parts Stores and Certified Service Centers, autoparts2020.comand M.P.H. Promotions.
To learn more about Chad Finley and to inquire about sponsorship opportunities within the organization for the fast approaching 2011 Racing Season in the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Presented by GM Performance Parts, log onto one of his two websites at: www.chadfinleyracing.com and www.sponsorchadfinley.com
2012 Racing Season (Coming Soon….)
Chad Finley Racing is already hard at work towards the fast approaching 2012 racing season. We’re revamping our website, tweaking a few things, and getting ready for a highly anticipated year.
In the meantime, “pardon our dust” as we make improvements to the website. Some of the information may be down, but that won’t be for long….
Sincerely,
Chad Finley Racing
16-year-old Rookie, Dominique Van Wieringen scores first career Super Late Model Feature Win
DeWitt, Michigan (Tuesday, July, 19th, 2011): When 16-year-old Dominique Van Wieringen made her debut at Spartan Speedway in Mason, Michigan back on May 6th behind the wheel of an Outlaw Bodied Super Late Model, many on lookers observed that the Amherstburg, Ontario / Canada teenager had a world of untapped potential behind the wheel of a full-sized racecar after her debut resulted in a fifth place finish.
Little did those on lookers realize just how quickly she would adapt to the high-powered machines in such a short amount of time! Van Wieringen, a Development Driver for Chad Finley Racing (CFR) and Michigan Motorsports Hall of Famer, Jeff Finley, and making only her sixth career start behind the wheel of a full bodied racecar, proved many observers right when on July 15th, she would fight off two-time track champion, Jimmy Gallagher to score her first career feature win and become the first female in the tracks long and storied history to win a Feature in the tracks premiere division.
“This is a great feeling. A lot of pressure there not to mess up those last few laps,” The young Canadian exclaimed. “Jimmy (Gallagher) was all over me. He raced me clean though and I appreciate that. This is just amazing to me. The car was perfect and I just can’t thank all the guys from CFR as well as Chad Finley for his help and guidance. He has helped me a bunch with my line and what I should be doing. Also (Crew Chief) Jimmy D. Smith for his help. Man what a great group of people they have put around me.” She added.
Her next scheduled race at the fast ¼ (0.250) mile semi-banked paved oval located just south of Lansing, Michigan is on Sunday, July 24th in the running of the “Chargin” Charlie Ryan Jr. Memorial 75-lap Feature which is part of the Midwest Racing Scene Sunday Slugfest Series. In the first Sunday Slugfest event back on June 26th, she finished 11th in the 75-lap feature and hopes to improve on that performance this Sunday.
On off weekends from driving the Outlaw Super, Van Wieringen still races one of her two MRP Motorsports Birel Racing Go-Karts as the 2011 season is her final year of racing the National circuit in the World Karting Association (WKA) series where she is one of the top drivers in the circuit. She began her racing career at just five years old as she started out in racing of the two-wheeled variety, in Motocross. She spent six seasons on motorcycles before moving into four-wheeled racing and went Go-Kart racing where she continues to be one of the top competitors within the WKA.
Prior to the start of the 2011 racing season, Van Wieringen joined forces with Chad Finley Racing and is chasing after the 2011 Rookie of the Year title at Spartan Speedway in the tracks Outlaw Super Late Models division. She is leading the freshman title chase by a very wide margin and sits seventh overall in the chase for the 2011 Track Championship. In six starts, she has one Feature Win as well as two top five finishes and five of her six starts have resulted in at least a top 10 showing.
“I just can’t thank (Car Owner) Jeff Finley enough for his years of experience. He has been instrumental in our success this whole year. All the guys in the shop who spend countless hours both there and at the track for me too. I’m very blessed to have such an incredible team who support me as much as they do.” She continued. “I can’t thank my family enough as well. They do a lot for me and I am thankful. My Dad and Mom really have worked hard for me, so again thank you to them. “Van Wieringen ended.
For the remainder of the 2011 racing season, Van Wieringen’s #95 Outlaw Super Late Model with a Chevrolet Camaro front nose, has sponsorship decals from DuroByte Inc., as well as NorthsideTowing.net, and Chad Finley Racing. To learn more about Dominic Van Wieringen and to inquire about additional sponsorship opportunities for the remainder of the current season as well as looking ahead to the 2012 campaign, go to her page within the Chad Finley Racing Website at: www.chadfinleyracing.com
