JR Motorsports announced today that Champion Irrigation Products, Inc., an industry pioneer in irrigation solutions, will join the organization during the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season as a primary partner for three races with Carson Kvapil and the No. 1 Chevrolet, beginning with Darlington Raceway on March 21, followed by Talladega on April 25^th and Phoenix on October 17^th. Additionally, Champion Irrigation will be featured in several associate placements on the No. 1 throughout the season.

“We are thrilled to bring Champion Irrigation to the JR Motorsports family in 2026,” said JRM CEO Kelley Earnhardt Miller. “As an existing fixture in motorsports we are excited for the opportunity to help them make the leap into the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and are looking forward to a successful season for Champion Irrigation with Carson and the No. 1 team.”

Champion Irrigation was founded in 1937 on the Pejsa brothers’ breakthrough invention of the irrigation anti-siphon valve. That same innovation still anchors the company today and serves as a reminder of its commitment to supporting growth in every sense of the word.

With this new partnership, Champion Irrigation is entering an exciting new chapter as it expands beyond residential irrigation and moves into commercial, agricultural and drip irrigation offerings. Together, we are setting the stage for broader reach, stronger visibility, and continued innovation.

“JRM was an easy choice as a partner to help Champion Irrigation reach its future goals, JRM’s practice of honoring legacy and innovating for the future is a natural fit with Champion Irrigations business and cultural philosophy. JRM’s focus on the Fan and Champion Irrigations focus on the Customer align perfectly and we are excited to reach new heights together”

 Jim Kapparos Chief Marketing Officer

Be sure to catch Kvapil and the No. 1 Champion Irrigation Chevrolet for their first of three primaries at Darlington on Saturday, March 21 on the CW, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

JRM PR

MOORSEVILLE, N.C. — The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts silly season is in full swing with Anthony Alfredo, Derrike Cope and Austin Green making moves.

Viking Motorsports Expands to 2 Entries

Viking Motorsports will expand to two entries next season, signing Anthony Alfredo for a full-time NASCAR’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series ride in 2026 in their new No. 96 Chevrolet.

The 26-year-old has been a mainstay in the second division of NASCAR since his departure from his NASCAR Cup Series ride with Front Row Motorsports in 2021. 2026 will be his fifth straight NOAPS season with five teams.

Now, Fast Pasta will have a teammate for the first time since his part-time schedule for RCR back in 2020.

Alfredo will be joined by crew chief Josh Graham. Graham sat on top of the box for Alfredo during his stint at Our Motorsports in 2024.

Graham comes up from the No. 19 McAnally-Hilgemann Racing program in the Craftsman Truck Series entry to reunite with his former driver once more.

“I’m really excited to be working with Josh again… him and I certainly punched above our weight with a smaller program,” Alfredo said.

Alfredo is confident this program can break into the playoffs. Viking Motorsports recently strengthened its technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing for 2026, a move that could elevate the team’s performance.

As Hendrick Motorsports’ current test and simulator driver, Alfredo will have plenty on his plate next season if the team’s competitiveness takes the expected step forward.

Cope Family Racing and Stanton Barrett Motorsports Join Forces

Cope Family Racing and Stanton Barrett Motorsports will merge for the upcoming 2026 O’Reilly Series in the newly numbered No. 30 entry.

CFR previously raced the entire 2025 NOAPS season with drivers Leland Honeyman Jr. and Thomas Annunziata finishing 31st in the standings while collecting a season-best finish of 12th with Honeyman Jr. at EchoPark Atlanta.

In a joint press release, Derrike Cope said, “Kevin Cope and I are excited about forming this alliance with SBM…We have made great strides acquiring race cars to be ready for Daytona and the first part of the year, including being reunited with veteran crew chief George Church.”

Church has over 400 career NASCAR starts on top of the box, most recently working for Cope in the Cup Series with the now defunct StarCom Racing.

The new co-owner, Stanton Barrett, commented, “I am excited to have the opportunity to partner with CFR and continue the long history of SBM.”

Barrett and his team were fixtures in the series from 2001–2008. They returned periodically with select starts in the years since.

No sponsorship or driver announcements for the 2026 campaign have been made yet but the groundwork is clearly being laid for a full-scale return.

Austin Green Full-Time Finally

NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series road course standout Austin Green will race full-time in the series in 2026, Peterson Racing announced Friday.

Green will drive the team’s No. 87 Chevrolet full-time in the NOAPS in 2026 with technical support from Richard Childress Racing. The technical partnership with RCR is new for 2026 and, according to the team, will strengthen their established relationship with ECR Engines. 

Peterson has fielded cars for Green in 21 NOAPS races since 2024. Green has excelled, earning two top-five finishes, eight top-10s and an average finish of 18.8 with the familiar yellow paint scheme with red numbers.

On road courses and street courses, Green earned two top-fives, seven top-10s and an average finish of 11.6 in 12 starts on the track types. 

Motorsport is a world where milliseconds matter. A fraction of a second can separate the champion from the pack, and behind every high-performance machine on the grid lies a long chain of engineering decisions, prototyping stages, and component optimization. As racing evolves, so does the technology that powers it—and nowhere is this more evident than in the rise of precision machined parts and Rapid Prototyping.

From F1 and IndyCar to NASCAR and endurance racing, elite teams are now relying on advanced manufacturing capabilities to push the limits of speed, safety, and aerodynamic performance. The days of slow machining cycles and trial-and-error fabrication are fading. Today, the racing industry is fueled by an engineering ecosystem built on faster iterations, tighter tolerances, and smarter production workflows.

In this article, we’ll explore how a new wave of advanced manufacturing is shaping the future of race car development—from concept design to track-ready performance.

The Need for Engineering Speed in Motorsports

Racing teams don’t have the luxury of long production schedules. New parts need to be tested, redesigned, optimized, and installed in record time—especially during a competitive season.

Every race weekend introduces new data points:

• aero inefficiencies
  
• heat-related component failures
  
• higher cornering loads
  
• unexpected vibrations
  
• driver feedback

To stay ahead, teams need engineering speed just as much as engine power. That’s where Rapid Prototyping has become a competitive advantage.

Instead of waiting weeks to test a new wing mount or brake duct, engineers can now produce prototypes overnight. Coaches, mechanics, and aerodynamicists get real parts they can mount, inspect, and validate at hyper-speed. And if the part needs modifications? Another iteration can be ready in hours.

This fast feedback loop is reshaping how racing teams attack performance problems.

Rapid Prototyping: The New Backbone of Race Car Innovation

Rapid Prototyping gives race teams the freedom to experiment quickly — and safely. Using advanced 3D printing and low-volume production techniques, teams can generate:

• aerodynamic prototypes
  
• interior cockpit components
  
• cooling channels
  
• steering wheel housings
  
• intake ducts
  
• sensor brackets

And these aren’t just basic plastic models anymore. The materials have evolved to include high-temperature polymers, nylon composites, carbon-infused materials, and in some cases metal-ready prototype structures.

For race engineers, the benefits include:

1. Faster Design Testing

New aerodynamic add-ons, like winglets or bargeboard textures, can be physically tested in wind tunnels the same week they are designed.

2. Better Data Collection

Prototypes help teams quickly validate structural feasibility before investing in full CNC machining runs.

3. Reduced Risk

Teams avoid wasting costly materials by validating fit, airflow behavior, and driver ergonomics during the early stages.

The motorsport industry is built on continuous improvement — and Rapid Prototyping accelerates that improvement cycle.

Precision Machined Parts: Where Performance Meets Perfection

Once a part is ready for final production, teams turn to their most trusted process — CNC machining. The racing world demands parts that can withstand insane loads, extreme heat, violent acceleration forces, and micro-vibrations at over 300 km/h. There is zero margin for error.

This is where Precision Machined Parts come in. These components deliver:

• sub-millimeter accuracy
  
• perfect surface finishes
  
• consistent performance
  
• race-grade durability

Whether it’s a titanium suspension component, an aluminum gearbox housing, or a carbon-fiber reinforced bracket, CNC machining ensures every part meets exact engineering specifications.

In motorsports, precision engineering directly translates into competitive advantage.

Where Rapid Prototyping Meets CNC Machining in Racing

Modern race car development relies on the combination of both processes. Here’s how teams typically use them together:

Step 1: Design & Simulation

CAD modeling, digital crash tests, airflow simulations.

Step 2: Rapid Prototyping

Engineers quickly print physical parts to validate:

• size
  
• ergonomics
  
• airflow
  
• heat resistance
  

Step 3: Physical Testing

Wind tunnel trials, track tests, and stress analysis.

Step 4: Precision CNC Machining

Once validated, the final part is produced using aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, or other race-grade alloys.

Step 5: Installation & Race Day Performance

The part is mounted, calibrated, tested — and eventually trusted at full race pace.

This hybrid workflow is one of the reasons today’s cars are faster, lighter, safer, and more aerodynamic than ever before.

How These Technologies Are Changing Race Day Strategy

It’s not only pre-season engineering that benefits. During a race season, teams often face unexpected challenges:

• a cooling duct cracks
  
• a suspension arm needs reinforcement
  
• the aero package needs tuning for a specific track
  
• a new regulation demands component redesign
  
• a crash damages structural parts

In the past, teams were limited by what they brought to the track. Now, with portable prototyping units and fast-turnaround manufacturing partners, teams can redesign and produce new parts even between back-to-back race weekends.

This capability is reshaping how teams manage reliability and performance under pressure.

A New Era of Race Car Manufacturing

The combination of Rapid Prototyping and Precision Machined Parts is more than just a technological advancement — it’s a competitive weapon. Racing teams that embrace faster production cycles and more accurate components gain:

• improved aerodynamics
  
• reduced vehicle weight
  
• better heat management
  
• stronger structural integrity
  
• more efficient testing programs
  
• rapid incident recovery

Today’s race cars are engineering masterpieces not only because of their engines or electronics, but because of the advanced manufacturing that powers their evolution.

Motorsports has always been a proving ground for technology. Now, modern fabrication is proving itself as one of the most important tools in the race for speed.

Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport announced today that Rajah Caruth will return to the organization for a 10-race schedule during the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season, driving the No. 32 Chevrolet.

Caruth reunites with Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport after making two starts with the team in 2025, continuing his steady climb through NASCAR’s national ranks. Since his O”Reilly Auto Parts Series debut in 2022, Caruth has made 22 starts across three organizations while also establishing himself as a respected front-runner in the Craftsman Truck Series. His time with Spire Motorsports included two victories, consistent speed, and a strong postseason run that elevated his profile as one of the sport’s rising competitors.

The team will continue to operate the No. 32 entry as a multi-driver program in 2026. Caruth’s 10-race slate with Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport will combine with his part-time races in the No. 88 for JR Motorsports to complete a full-season schedule, giving him the opportunity to compete for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Championship. The collaboration between the two Chevrolet-backed organizations provides Caruth a rare and meaningful chance to run the entire year while contributing to both programs.

“We’ve enjoyed getting to know Rajah and watching him continue to grow each year as a driver,” said team owner Jordan Anderson.

“He brings great energy to our group and works well with everyone here. We’re excited to have him back in our Chevrolets and to play a key role in helping him run the full season and chase a championship.”

Additional driver updates for the No. 32 Chevrolet, along with partner announcements, will be shared in the coming weeks.

Stay connected to Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport’s social channels across Facebook, Instagram, and X for exclusive behind-the-scenes content throughout the off season leading up to the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway, February 14.

JAR PR

Four-time PDRA world champion Jason Harris rocketed to the top of the Pro Mod qualifying order Thursday night at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks. Competing in the first race of the three-race 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service at Bradenton Motorsports Park, Harris recorded a 3.560-second pass at 211.20 mph in his Harts Charger-boosted “Party Time” ’69 Camaro to lead what is already a record-setting 32-car field with two qualifying sessions still on the Friday schedule. 

Thursday was originally scheduled to be a testing day leading up to Friday qualifying, but rain in the Sunday forecast led race officials to accelerate the event timeline. Pro Mod, Pro 10.5, Limited Drag Radial, and Ultra Street completed two qualifying sessions and True 10.5 N/T and Lil Gangstas ran two shakedown sessions. 

Harris, who owns a pair of world championships in both PDRA Pro Nitrous and Pro Boost, rolled into Bradenton with a brand-new Harold Denton “Party Time” tribute livery on his ’69 Camaro. The car also sported some changes in the mechanical department, and though it took some time to get those changes dialed in, it all worked out when Harris threw down the 3.56 at 211.20 mph in the second session.

“We struggled in testing and got all our gremlins out of the way,” Harris said. “We went down the track on the first run, no big deal, and I kind of expected a .57-.58, but I think we made a good enough adjustment to where it picked up that extra hundredth. We’re still messing with this Harts Charger right now, and we’re trying to learn the fuel, but we’re getting there. It’s a badass run. What can I say? My team, Pro Line, TKM – all these guys stand behind me. It was a team effort. We’ve worked really hard in the last couple of days, and it all came together tonight.”

Over two qualifying sessions, 79 Pro Mod drivers attempted to qualify for the 32-car field. Defending event champion Kye Kelley qualified No. 2 in his screw-blown Larry Jeffers Race Cars ’25 Camaro known as “Uncle Larry” with a 3.575 at 209.62. Eric Gustafson in the ProCharged Coast Packing Co. ’69 Camaro is third with his 3.576 at 210.01 from the first qualifying session, which netted him the $5,000 Pro Line Racing “Off The Trailer” Bonus for making the quickest pass of the opening session. Randy Weatherford posted a 3.581 at 210.93 in his new Harts Charger-boosted WS Construction ’69 Camaro to sit No. 4. Ken Quartuccio, the reigning DI Winter Series champion, rounds out the top five with a 3.583 at 209.95 in his screw-blown Tidwell Nesloney Racing ’69 Camaro. Jason Lee sits on the bump spot with a 3.629 at 207.56. 

The list of drivers on the outside looking in is just as impressive, with past NHRA Pro Mod world champion Kris Thorne, 2017 World Series of Pro Mod champion Mike Bowman, three-time Winter Series No. 1 qualifier Mark Micke, six-time NHRA Pro Stock world champion Erica Enders, two-time PDRA Pro Boost world champion Todd Tutterow, and 2023 Snowbirds winner Lyle Barnett among the drivers not yet qualified. 

Harris knows the target is on his back, and he knows who’s aiming at it. Plus, on top of bragging rights, the final No. 1 qualifier will walk away with a $5,000 bonus from Jerry Bickel Race Cars. If the Snowbirds No. 1 qualifier tops the charts at the other two Winter Series events, the U.S. Street Nationals and the World Series of Pro Mod, JBRC will build them a Pro Mod rolling chassis valued at more than $200,000. 

“I think a 3.56 is a stout run, but there’s a lot of badass people here and anybody’s capable,” Harris said. “Everybody here has the best equipment there is. I’m hoping it will stand up, but we’ll just see how everything plays out.”

The JBRC Clean Sweep Challenge isn’t the only sweep on Harris’s mind. He’s also hoping to be in the conversation for the first-ever Elite Motorsports Million, which will award an unprecedented $1,000,000 prize if one Pro Mod driver wins all three Winter Series events. As a past Snowbirds winner and two-time semifinalist at the World Series of Pro Mod, Harris believes he has a chance. 

“I’ve been close. I’ve been real close,” Harris said. “I’ve won this race years and years ago with a nitrous car. It’d be nice to do it again and try to go after that million. I’ve won a bunch of races in a row before. But each round win feels like a winner’s circle to me against the heavy hitters that we’ve got here.”

In Pro 10.5, which is also competing at all three Winter Series races, John Carinci went to the provisional No. 1 spot with a 3.879 at 209.69 in his twin-turbocharged ’04 Corvette tuned by 2018 WSOPM champion Carl Stevens Jr. Jerry Morgano qualified second with a 3.900 at 203.03 in his small-block, turbocharged “Copperhead” ’02 Mustang Cobra. Super Bowl champion Fletcher Cox drove his nitrous-fed “Training Day” ’69 Camaro to a 3.920 at 194.49 to sit third. 

Bradenton’s own Brett LaSala wheeled his turbocharged “Snot Rocket” ’13 Mustang to a 3.900 at 196.85 to take the provisional No. 1 spot in Limited Drag Radial. Terry Wilson is the provisional No. 1 qualifier in Ultra Street with a 4.425 at 157.80 in his ’95 Mustang. 

Friday’s third qualifying session will kick off with Pro Mod starting at 9:30 a.m. followed by Pro 10.5, True 10.5 N/T, Lil Gangstas, Ultra Street, and Limited Drag Radial. The index classes will then get a time trial before Pro 10.5 returns to kick off the fourth qualifying session. Pro Mod final qualifying will round out the night at 6 p.m. 

General admission tickets are available for $35 on Friday and $40 for Saturday’s Night of Fire. Active military and children ages 12 and under get in free. VIP packages are also available. Fans can watch the race through the official event livestream on www.FloRacing.com.

This story was originally published on December 4, 2025.

Joseph maintains the role of Managing Editor for TobyChristie.com, while also working as an Editor for Racing America. Additionally, Joseph graduated from the University of Windsor in 2022 with a Business Administration degree, a specialization in Supply Chain Management and Data Analytics, and a minor in Mathematics.