World Racing Group in Concord, North Carolina, has expanded its executive team by adding Charlie Mellilo as its chief media and marketing officer.
Most recently, Mellilo led Global Client Services for Endeavor Streaming, the direct-to-consumer technology division of Endeavor. In his new role, Mellilo will oversee all areas of content creation, production, distribution and marketing for all World Racing Group properties, including the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, the World of Outlaws CASE Construction Equipment Late Model Series, the Super DIRTcar Series, as well as its direct-to-consumer platform DIRTVision.
About his new role, Mellilo said, “World Racing Group is the pinnacle of the sport of dirt racing. The team is amazing, and I am very excited to join the organization.” He added, “They have created an amazing business that is positioned for tremendous growth. I am excited to help usher in that new stage.”
“Charlie is a proven leader and a true innovator in the sports media space, and we are thrilled to have him join the organization. We know he will help elevate our business, help us continue our evolution, and further strengthen our position as the leader in dirt racing,” said World Racing Group CEO Brian Carter.
Mellilo joined Endeavor in 2018 through its acquisition of NeuLion. During his time at NeuLion and Endeavor, Mellilo was responsible for the launch of numerous well-known services including UFC Fight Pass, Rogers Sportsnet NOW, and Univision NOW. He also worked with the NBA, NFL, WWE, ESPN, Sky New Zealand and many other premier sports properties on numerous direct-to-consumer services.
Image courtesy of Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS)
Brickyard Weekend returns to its iconic roots--the 2.5-mile oval at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS)--as NASCAR celebrates 30 years at the Racing Capital of the World on July 20-21, 2024.
The Brickyard Weekend race lineup will include the NASCAR Xfinity Series Pennzoil 250 on Saturday, July 20 and the NASCAR Cup Series Brickyard 400 presented by PPG on Sunday, July 21.
"While it's been exciting to watch the NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series drivers tackle the IMS road course over the last three years, being back on the oval for the 30th anniversary is a much-anticipated homecoming for drivers and fans alike," IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. "Whether you've been with us all 30 years or are a new fan, the celebration as we 'come back around' will be a can't-miss and truly unforgettable."
The inaugural Brickyard 400 (Aug. 6, 1994) was the first race other than the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge to be held at IMS since 1916. From 1994 to 2020, the race was held on the 2.5-mile oval before shifting to the 14-turn, 2.439-mile road course over the last three years as part of a tripleheader weekend with the NTT IndyCar Series.
Officials have announced a new national short-course racing series backed by American Outdoors Events (AOE), the Oklahoma-based organizer of adrenaline-pumping motorsports events.
The professional off-road series, which has yet to be named, will feature some of the sport's best drivers and fastest unlimited vehicles and is poised to redefine the landscape of short-course racing, propelling it to new heights of exhilaration and entertainment, organizers said.
The series will officially launch at the 2023 PRI Show in Indianapolis on December 7-9 (registration is still open here). Organizers announced seven high-octane events set for iconic locations from California to the Midwest.
The program, which will reportedly feature $1.5 million in total payouts, will showcase some of the most renowned tracks in the sport, including the legendary Bark River (Bark River, Michigan), the thrilling ERX Motor Park (Elk River, Minnesota), the historic Crandon International Raceway (Crandon, Wisconsin) and the newly complete MidAmerica Outdoors in Jay, Oklahoma.
Fans can expect an exhilarating lineup of Pro4, Pro2, Pro Lite, Pro Buggy, Pro Turbo SxS, and Pro N/A SxS classes.
In addition, AOE also announced plans for the unification of regional racers currently competing in separate series around the country. The yet-to-be-named series would unify Sportsman category racers in a wide variety of truck, buggy and side-by-side classes currently running under the Great American Shortcourse (GAS) series in the west, the Midwest Off-Road Racing (MORR) group in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota, and the MidAmerica Racing (MAO Racing) group competing in Oklahoma and Missouri.
Current plans also call for the expansion of regional short course off-road racing to the eastern United States for an East region in 2025, bringing short course racing to fans and drivers from coast to coast.
Jasper, Indiana-based Meyer Distributing has announced the addition of its Alexandria, Louisiana cross-dock. The facility will have access to a direct feed from Meyer's Arlington, Texas, distribution hub, which houses one of the largest inventories of automotive accessories, 4x4/off-road parts, RV and related parts in the region.
"Meyer has expanded inventories significantly in 4x4, off-road, and Jeep/Bronco parts," said Jamin Hochgesang, Meyer's 4x4/Off-Road Sales Manager. "Having larger inventories available next day now throughout the South has been very well received by our customers. Whether it's a winch, tires, snorkel kit or any other Jeep/Bronco accessory, Meyer has it. Call our dedicated 4x4/Off-Road sales team today at 800-347-8939."
The Mazda Spec MX-5 (SMX) car class, part of select SCCA Road Racing events for several years, will be recognized as an SCCA Road Racing Runoffs class beginning January 1, 2024.
All SCCA U.S. Majors Tour and Hoosier Racing Tire SCCA Super Tour weekends will include an SMX class, and the group will have an official race at Road America in 2024 as a fully recognized National Championship Runoffs class.
"While the creation of a ruleset in the GCR for SMX competition is not yet fully completed, it will closely mirror the current specifications laid out for the Spec MX-5 Challenge Series," SCCA CRB Chairman John LaRue said.
Based on the '06-'15 Mazda Miata MX-5 (NC) chassis, the SMX class is designed as an affordable, reliable, tech-able and fun-to-drive option for SCCA racers. SMX, being added to the lineup of SCCA Runoffs classes starting in 2024, offers new and existing Club members a place to race in that targets a cost-effective and level playing field.
Officials with IndyCar have announced a 17-race schedule for the 2024 NTT IndyCar Series season, which includes a much-anticipated return to the historic Milwaukee Mile Speedway for the first time since 2015. The fabled one-mile oval in West Allis, Wisconsin, will showcase the NTT IndyCar Series racing with a doubleheader weekend for the first time in the track's history, providing two crucial races during the homestretch of the 2024 championship.
"There is such a great tradition and history of INDYCAR racing at the Milwaukee Mile, and we are excited to build on that legacy with a Labor Day weekend NTT INDYCAR SERIES doubleheader beginning in 2024," said Roger Penske, chairman of Penske Corporation.
The schedule is also highlighted by two Saturday night races, a new and unique made-for-TV exhibition in Southern California, a global entertainment destination as the new host city for the season finale, and 12 NBC broadcast network showcases bolstered by the rising popularity of live streaming on Peacock.
2024 NTT IndyCar Series Schedule Date/Venue/Television
Sunday, March 10/Streets of St. Petersburg/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, March 24/The Thermal Club $1 Million Challenge*/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, April 21/Streets of Long Beach/USA Network, Peacock
Sunday, April 28/Barber Motorsports Park/NBC, Peacock
Saturday, May 11/Indianapolis Motor Speedway (road course)/NBC, Peacock
Saturday, May 18/Indianapolis 500 Qualifying Day 1/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, May 19/Indianapolis 500 Qualifying Day 2/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, May 26/Indianapolis Motor Speedway (oval)/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, June 2/Streets of Detroit/USA Network, Peacock
Sunday, June 9/Road America/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, June 23/WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca/USA Network, Peacock
Sunday, July 7/Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course/NBC, Peacock
Saturday, July 13/Iowa Speedway Race 1/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, July 14/Iowa Speedway Race 2/NBC, Peacock
Sunday, July 21/Streets of Toronto/Peacock
Saturday, Aug. 17/World Wide Technology Raceway/USA Network, Peacock
Sunday, Aug. 25/Portland International Raceway/USA Network, Peacock
New economic data released shows the significant impact that the specialty equipment aftermarket for motor vehicles has on America's economy--and just what it means for people across the country.
Amid the ongoing United Auto Workers strike at the Big Three car manufacturers, the report provides compelling data that the specialty automotive aftermarket is robust, despite the challenging economic environment.
SEMA commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates and based on 2023 U.S. economy data. SEMA represents more than 7,000 member businesses, the vast majority being small businesses, across the United States. The industry manufactures, sells and distributes aftermarket performance and accessory parts for passenger cars, trucks and 4-wheel off-road vehicles.
The "SEMA Economic Impact Report" shows the financial output and support to the U.S. economy of the specialty-equipment market.
There are several key findings in the report:
Nationwide, the specialty-equipment industry supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.
More than $104 billion worth of wages and benefits earned by American workers annually are supported by the industry.
The industry accounts for more than $40 billion in taxes, including $24 billion in federal taxes and $16 billion in state and local taxes), which support the development of critical national and local infrastructure.
The industry contributes more than $336 billion to the American economy annually.
These businesses employ more than twice the number of people as the U.S. aircraft industry and more people than the entire motion picture and video production industry. The aftermarket industry helps small businesses to grow, create new jobs and hire more workers, and builds partnerships that expand local economies across the United States.
This economic impact study complements the industry's annual market report on consumer trends. Consumers spent $52 billion on specialty automotive aftermarket products in 2022.
SEMA has released an interactive map that provides users with state-by-state, congressional and state-house and senate data in addition to the national numbers.
"We're extremely proud that our industry represents such a key part of America's economy, affecting any motorist who has upgraded their vehicle for a host of needs," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA's president and CEO. "SEMA's 7,000-plus members, which are primarily small businesses and the more than one million workers in the specialty aftermarket, are extraordinary contributors to making the United States and local economies stronger across the country. It's an industry that, one way or another, everyone has a stake in. It provides people with good-paying jobs, and our local, state and federal coffers with taxes that grow our country's economy. SEMA's ecosystem is a powerhouse economic engine driving positive change, innovation and opportunity to America's big cities and small towns, working families and small businesses. The specialty-equipment aftermarket has proven to be a vibrant industry that delivers economic support to all 50 states."
PRI Membership allows the racing community to showcase its passion and pride for the industry. By uniting motorsports professionals, PRI is actively addressing challenges and needs, such as providing support for race tracks to prevent them from closing, advocacy for the racing community against current legal threats and educational programs that help businesses and racers succeed.
View the long list of companies and brands committed to boosting the performance and motorsports industry with special deals and discounts--only available to PRI Members through the PRI Member portal.
As a reminder, an active PRI Membership is required to attend the PRI Show, Dec 7-9, in downtown Indianapolis. For more information, visit performanceracing.com/membership or check the PRI Member newsletter delivered to inboxes every Monday.
How to Access the PRI Membership Portal
The PRI Member Portal, located on performanceracing.com, makes it easier than ever for PRI Individual and PRI Business members to take advantage of exclusive opportunities. The custom dashboard shows PRI members the latest benefits, discounts and deals courtesy of PRI partners--all in just a few clicks.
Here's how to access the PRI Member Portal in three easy steps:
Avoid common mistakes that can leave a trailer and its contents vulnerable to theft. A reliable locking mechanism, motion-activated floodlights, and an alarm are three practical tools to protect race trailers.
Follow these essential security measures to protect your trailer and its contents for ultimate peace of mind.
In the world of motorsports and automotive enthusiasts, trailers are indispensable tools for transporting vehicles, equipment, and valuable cargo. Whether you’re a professional racer, an avid collector, or a weekend hobbyist, the security of your trailer and its contents is of paramount importance. Unfortunately, many people make common mistakes when it comes to trailer security, leaving their precious cargo vulnerable to theft and damage. What follows is an examination of these pitfalls and valuable insights into the proper methods of safeguarding your trailer and its contents.
1. Underestimating the Risks
One of the most significant mistakes trailer owners make is underestimating the potential risks associated with trailer theft. They often assume that thieves will not target their trailers or that basic security measures are sufficient. However, trailers filled with valuable cars or equipment are highly attractive targets for criminals, especially when left unattended in public areas or at events. Ignoring this risk can lead to devastating consequences and financial losses.
What to do instead: Understand the real risk involved and adopt a proactive mindset toward trailer security. Recognize that prevention is key and invest in comprehensive security measures to safeguard your trailer and its contents effectively.
2. Lack of Adequate Locking Mechanisms
A common oversight is relying solely on the factory-installed locks or using generic padlocks, which can be easily defeated by determined thieves. These standard locks are often not strong enough to withstand sophisticated break-in attempts, leaving trailers vulnerable to theft and pilferage.
What to do instead: Upgrade your trailer’s locking mechanisms to include heavy-duty padlocks, hitch locks, and wheel locks. Consider using reinforced steel chains or cables to secure the trailer to a fixed object, making it difficult for thieves to tow it away.
3. Inadequate Lighting and Visibility
Dark and poorly lit areas provide the perfect cover for thieves to tamper with your trailer unnoticed. Many trailer owners overlook the importance of proper lighting and visibility, making their trailers more susceptible to theft during nighttime or at events.
What to do instead: Install bright LED lights around your trailer to deter potential thieves. Position motion-activated floodlights near your trailer’s entrance points to increase security during the night. Moreover, park your trailer in well-lit and high-traffic areas whenever possible, as thieves are less likely to strike in areas where they can be easily spotted.
4. Ignoring Alarms and GPS Tracking Systems
Some trailer owners believe that theft prevention ends with a strong lock, but advanced security technology should not be overlooked. Alarm systems and GPS tracking devices are highly effective tools to safeguard your trailer and improve the chances of recovery in case of theft.
What to do instead: Invest in a high-quality trailer alarm system that triggers loud sirens and alerts your phone in case of unauthorized access. Consider installing GPS tracking devices that allow you to monitor your trailer’s location in real-time. These tools significantly enhance the chances of retrieving your stolen trailer and its contents.
Installing an alarm is an effective deterrent to prevent trailer theft. TrailerAlarms.com’s PTS-2G, for example, not only provides “security in an instant” by sounding a 120 db siren, flashing the running lights of the trailer and locking the electric brakes, but it also allows the trailer owner to track its location, check the status, and remotely arm/disarm the alarm, as well as sends notifications via email if the alarm is set off.
5. Leaving Valuables Unsecured Inside the Trailer
Leaving valuable items, such as tools, spare parts, or personal belongings, unsecured inside the trailer is a common mistake that can attract thieves. Even if the trailer is properly locked, looking through windows to visible valuable items can tempt burglars to break in and steal.
What to do instead: Always remove valuables from your trailer when it’s not in use. If you must store items in the trailer during transportation, use lockable storage containers or secure them to fixed anchor points within the trailer.
6. Failing to Conduct Regular Checks
Many trailer owners assume that once they’ve implemented security measures, their work is done. However, they forget that security requirements change over time, and equipment can wear out or become compromised.
What to do instead: Regularly inspect your trailer and its security features to ensure everything is in optimal working condition. Replace worn-out locks, update security software, and stay informed about the latest security technologies to keep your trailer protected.
Be Proactive
Securing your trailer and its contents is not a one-time task; it requires continuous attention and proactive measures. By avoiding common security mistakes and adopting the right protective strategies, you can minimize the risk of theft and damage to your trailer and valuable cargo. Remember, investing in comprehensive security measures is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your prized possessions are safe and sound during every journey. Another benefit is you may even receive a discount from your insurance company.
Lyle Clark started Trailer-Alarms.com in 2005 after a friend’s kart trailer had been broken into twice, prompting Clark to find better security solutions for racers. His goal was to become the JEGS for trailer security. In 2015, Clark purchased Pro-Tec System One, manufacturer of the PTS-2 trailer security system. Since then, the company has continued to expand the PTS-2 line as well as other products and is always testing new options and features.
Tracking legal, legislative, and regulatory developments impacting the racing and performance industry.
PRI’s Washington, DC-based legal and advocacy teams work continuously to protect and support motorsports venues, sanctioning bodies, and businesses around the nation. We are tracking several initiatives this month, including new movement in legislation benefiting race track owners, four states’ proposed bans on internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, and an update on how members of the industry came together to uplift the racing and automotive community.
Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act Introduced Into Senate, Gains Industry Support
US Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Todd Young (R-IN) have introduced S. 2462, the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act. The PRI-supported, bipartisan legislation would accelerate the time it takes for tracks to recover the cost of their long-term investments, such as facility upgrades and improvements. The Act would make permanent a seven-year cost recovery period for investments, an incentive currently set to expire at the end of 2025.
Companion legislation, H.R. 2696, was introduced earlier this year in the US House of Representatives by Representatives Claudia Tenney (R-NY) and Mike Thompson (D-CA), along with seven bipartisan co-sponsors. Motorsports facilities have benefited from accelerated cost recovery since 2004, when Congress codified a temporary provision that defined “motorsports entertainment complex.” In 2020, Congress extended the accelerated depreciation of investments through December 2025. S. 2462 and H.R. 2696 would make the accelerated depreciation incentive permanent for more than 1,500 race tracks across the nation that have been the source of affordable, family-friendly entertainment for more than half a century.
“Most motorsports facilities are small businesses that employ many hard-working Americans and provide positive economic benefits to the surrounding communities they serve. Congress should make this provision permanent to all owners to make necessary investments to their tracks and property to ensure that racing continues to be available to enthusiasts nationwide,” explained Tiffany Cipoletti, PRI Federal Government Affairs Manager.
The Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act is gaining traction across the industry. Jonathan Byrd, the general manager of Indianapolis Speedrome, recently told WISH-TV Indianapolis about the paved short track’s recent upgrades, including new concession stands, lighting, scoreboard, grandstands, and a beer garden. Byrd emphasized why the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act is essential, as at least six of his fellow track operators have been unable to reopen their gates this year.
PRI track ambassador Tom Deery echoed Byrd’s sentiments to WISH-TV Indianapolis, stating that the tax break helps motorsports and entertainment facilities continually reinvent themselves to ensure the best customer experience.
For more information, contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.
Action Needed: Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, and New Jersey Propose ICE Bans
Officials in Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, and New Jersey have published PRI- and SEMA-opposed regulations that, if approved, would require each state to adopt California’s latest motor vehicle emissions laws. The moves would effectively outlaw the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars in those states beginning in 2035.
While Connecticut, Maine, and New Jersey have historically followed California’s tailpipe laws, Colorado has recently flip-flopped on its stance. Once an advocate for individual choice in automobile purchases, the state is now pushing for an 80% zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate by 2032. This change in direction raises concerns about consumer choice, affordability, and the future of the automotive aftermarket industry.
“We believe that enthusiasts, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. Furthermore, the automotive industry is embracing new technology to make cars cleaner and more efficient, which includes hydrogen, new synthetic fuels, alternative fuels, and improvements to ICE technology,” said Christian Robinson, PRI Senior Director, State Government Affairs & Grassroots. “Simply put, the government should allow the market to continue to innovate all forms of technology that significantly reduce vehicle emissions, not just electric vehicles.”
Enthusiasts voiced their opposition to the regulations in comments submitted to state departments prior to press time. Submissions are now closed. PRI will continue to provide updates on these important initiatives.
SEMA, PRI PACs Raise Thousands for the Industry at the Verizon Brickyard 200
On Sunday, August 13, the automotive industry witnessed exhilarating on-track action alongside a successful collaboration between PRI and SEMA Political Action Committees (PACs). The highly anticipated fundraiser, held during the NASCAR Verizon 200 at the Brickyard race, was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders, local media, and passionate race enthusiasts for an unforgettable event.
Against the backdrop of the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), nearly 50 PAC members, most of whom were first-time donors, raised more than $14,000 to support our shared mission to advocate for the interests of the automotive aftermarket sector and racing communities.
Eric Bewersdorf, Reed Lubbers, Evan Belleville (front row) and Colin Belleville (back row) enjoy the PRI and SEMA PAC suite at the NASCAR Verizon 200 at the Brickyard.
US law restricts trade associations like SEMA and PRI from funding political candidates, but our voices still need to be heard. A PAC allows association members to pool resources and protect individual freedoms such as vehicle purchase choice, off-road access, and the right to race.
Keep an eye on the PRI eNews for upcoming PRI PAC fundraising events. For more information on how you can get involved in the PRI PAC, contact PAC Manager Alicia Steger at alicias@sema.org or 202-796-2252.
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