Allyson Castillo, a senior at UCF studying broadcast journalism in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media (NSCM), spent ten weeks this summer as an intern for NASCAR’s content team, where she’s working on influencer relations, trend analysis and digital storytelling that brings the energy of the race track to its audiences.

Castillo was only one of 40 students selected from more than 4,000 applicants for the NASCAR Next Internship Program. Interns from various academic backgrounds in the program are placed with teams and departments that stretch across the NASCAR industry, including 23XI Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Daytona International Speedway and more.

“It absolutely means the world to me to be chosen out of 4,000 applicants,” she says. “It’s truly incredible to work alongside professionals and see the reality of what it’s like to actually be working in this exciting industry.”

Castillo’s role within the content team gives her insight into the digital side of motorsports, where she helps the brand connect with new and existing fans.

“My department specifically works with influencers, inviting them to a track to spread awareness and create content that shares the love of the sport,” she says. “It’s been a great experience connecting and working with these influencers.”

Having this internship opened new doors for Castillo and provided her with the opportunity to travel to Chicago and see her work come to life.

“Traveling to Chicago for the first time and having the chance to work alongside talented professionals and help grow the sport through influencer outreach is fulfilling to see,” she says. “It showed me how hard work pays off.”

Castillo says she’s always been a fan of motorsports, which encouraged her to apply when she made connections in the industry though UCF student organizations and opportunities such as the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) and NSCM’s Intern Pursuit.

“One of the people I met through networking opportunities on campus works in communications for NASCAR in Daytona,” Catillo says. “I connected with her to learn how to start in the industry. She was kind enough to share information about the NASCAR Next Internship Program.”

As a first-generation college student, Castillo says her goals have been shaped by the hard work and devotedness she grew up surrounded by.

“My parents were very young when they moved to the United States and seeing their dedication has always inspired me to earn a degree,” she said. “It’s so important to provide a space for communities to share their voice and be heard — and journalism has helped provide that pathway for me.”

Castillo says she credits networking events and UCF’s student organizations for this incredible opportunity.

“If I didn’t go to these networking events or if I wasn’t part of student organizations here at UCF, I wouldn’t have made those important connections or even know that this internship exists,” she says.

As an engaged journalism student, Castillo shares that she has earned priceless professional experience in many areas of media, including NPR’s Are We There Yet? podcast, reporting on UCF Athletics with ESPN+, partaking in Spanish spoken news broadcasts with NAHJ, and contributing to The Charge, UCF’s student-run news organization.

“The journalism program does a fantastic job in helping students connect with professionals,” she says. “Those opportunities really prepared me for the real world and taught me how to communicate effectively, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.”

NASCAR crew member suspended after Watkins Glen International

Over the weekend, NASCAR raced on the road course of Watkins Glen International. The No. 99 NASCAR Truck Series team of Ben Rhodes has been handed the only penalty after the weekend.

View the NASCAR penalty report from Watkins Glen International.

NASCAR Truck Series
Penalties

Driver/Team: Ben Rhodes No. 99

Date: 8/8/2025 (post-race inspection)

Level: Safety

Infraction: Sections 10.5.2.5.G: Safety Penalties Note: Loss or separation of an improperly installed rear axle from the vehicle during the event.

Penalty: Crew member (Marshall Hill) have been suspended from the next NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Championship points events, through Richmond Raceway, August 15, 2025.

Links

Watkins Glen International | NASCAR

MADISON, Ill. (Aug. 14, 2025) – Nu Way Concrete Forms, in celebration of the St. Louis-based company’s 70^thanniversary, will serve as title sponsor for the NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday, Sept. 6, at World Wide Technology Raceway.

In addition to Nu Way in the entitlement role, St. Louis’ award-winning barbeque company Blues Hog will serve as the presenting sponsor.

The 160-lap, 200-mile event, which will be the Xfinity Series’ regular-season finale, will be branded as the Nu Way 200 Sauced by Blues Hog. The race, which marks the Xfinity Series return to the St. Louis Metro East facility for the first time in 15 years, will be broadcast live on The CW Network and MRN Radio beginning at 6:30 p.m. CT.

“We are excited to bring on both Nu Way and Blues Hog for the Nu Way 200 Sauced by Blues Hog NASCAR Xfinity Series race,” said WWT Raceway VP of Sales and Sponsorship Declan O’Neill. “Bringing on two local powerhouses in the St. Louis area shows just how much the support of the community helps build these national events.” 

Both local companies have built strong reputations in their respective industries and have made significant contributions to the St. Louis area. Nu Way has become a staple in the St. Louis region’s construction industry by providing premium supplies, equipment and expert services.

“We are thrilled to be the title sponsor for the Xfinity Series race at World Wide Technology Raceway this year! This event holds special significance as it marks Xfinity’s return to WWTR after 15 years, and it perfectly coincides with Nu Way’s 70th anniversary,” Nu Way Director of Sales Mike Townsend said. “We extend our sincere gratitude to our customers for your continued business and loyalty, and we also want to thank WWTR for being a valued and trusted partner.”

Blues Hog will be bringing a new flavor to the Madison, Ill.-based venue during the NASCAR race weekend. Founded in the 1980s, the company has grown into an award-winning barbeque operation, earning national recognition for its sauces and seasonings. 

“Blues Hog is excited to bring our bold flavors to the WWT Raceway! Looking forward to providing a fun and tasty experience at the track this year,” Blues Hog owner Tim Scheer said. “Stay Saucy, race fans!”

The Nu Way 200 Sauced by Blues Hog will be complemented by the Enjoy Illinois 300 NASCAR Cup Series Playoff race on Sunday, Sept. 7. The action-packed weekend also is full of entertainment and music as the Confluence Music Festival returns alongside the NASCAR action. The musical acts will be highlighted by a pre-race performance by rising country star Ella Langley and a post-race concert by award-winning country music artist Jon Pardi.

For the full NASCAR weekend schedule click here. To purchase tickets please visit TIXR. For more information, please visit wwtraceway.com, nuwayinc.com or blueshog.com. 

About World Wide Technology Raceway

World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR) is the home of NASCAR, INDYCAR and NHRA racing in St. Louis’ Metro East region. Located just five minutes from downtown St. Louis and covering 700 acres, WWTR is the largest outdoor entertainment facility in the area. WWTR’s facilities include a 1.25-mile superspeedway; 1/4-mile drag strip; 2.0-mile road course; the Gateway Kartplex state-of-the-art karting facility; and the adjacent Gateway National Golf Links. WWTR and Owner & CEO Curtis Francois have been recognized with several awards, including: 2023 St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame induction; 2023 Innovation in Philanthropy Award by the St. Louis Business Journal; 2022 Explore St. Louis Hospitality Hero Recognition; 2022 Best in Show and Best Event & Festival from the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism; 2021 Comcast Community Champion of the Year; 2021 Jack Buck Award; 2020 NASCAR Drive for Diversity Track Award; 2018 Innovator Award from the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission; 2017 Outstanding Facility of the Year Award from the Race Track Business Conference; and the 2017 Spirit of St. Louis Award from the St. Louis Attractions Association. Our mission: We are committed to making a difference in our community, while providing first-class entertainment and memories that last a lifetime.

About Nu Way

Nu Way.  Everything for the Contractor.  Since 1955, Nu Way Concrete Forms, Inc. has been family-owned and committed to supporting the success of builders throughout the Midwest.  Now celebrating 70 years in business, Nu Way has grown to six locations and is recognized as the region’s premier provider of construction materials, equipment and form rentals, along with expert estimating and rebar fabrication services. Our legacy is built on quality, reliability, and the strong relationships we’ve formed with contractors over generations — and we’re proud to keep building the future, one project at a time.

About Blues Hog

Blues Hog is a nationally recognized producer of premium barbecue products, trusted by top chefs, champion pitmasters, and restaurateurs around the world. Known as “The Award-Winning Choice of Champions,” Blues Hog offers a diverse lineup of sauces, seasonings, marinades, fuels, and meats crafted to elevate any barbecue experience—from backyard cookouts to elite competitions. With a commitment to exceptional taste and quality, Blues Hog delivers next-level flavor for every occasion. For more information, visit www.blueshog.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Payton Buschhorn | WWTR Public Relations & Media Manager | 314.517.5125 | pbuschhorn@wwtraceway.com

Driver Connor Zilisch’s head-first tumble from the roof of his car in Victory Lane last weekend resulted in a broken collarbone but no changes in the customary celebrations, NASCAR said.

There will be more attention on the window net, which apparently tangled with Zilisch’s left foot as he climbed out of his No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet after winning the Mission 200 at The Glen Xfinity Series race on Saturday night.

Zilisch, 19, had one foot on the hood and one on the ledge of the window and was posing for photographs when he lost his balance and fell hard to the ground. The rookie was taken off the track on a backboard and to the hospital via ambulance.

“I think that was part of the problem, that the window net was flapping on the outside,” NASCAR managing director of communications Mike Forde said during the latest episode of the “Hauler Talk” podcast released on Wednesday.

“I think Connor even said that may have been a problem, and one of our safety guys actually mentioned the same thing. So, we may do just sort of a check to make sure that if that’s inside the car, it’s one less thing you can slip on.”

Zilisch did not race on Sunday in the NASCAR Cup Series at Watkins Glen International Speedway.

“First of all, I’m doing OK,” Zilisch said during the USA broadcast of the race. “Very grateful to be able to walk away from that. I guess I didn’t walk away, but I’m very grateful to be walking today and to just be all right. Thank you to all the medics who took care of me, and everybody who reached out and wished me well. I do appreciate it a lot.”

Zilisch said he knew he was in trouble just before the fall.

“Yeah, I was climbing out of the car and obviously the window net was on the door, and as soon as they started spraying water, my foot slipped,” Zilisch said. “The last thing I remember was being halfway down and falling, so I’m glad it wasn’t any worse, and that the collarbone is the extent of the injuries, but hate I couldn’t make it to the race today.”

Forde said on the podcast that NASCAR has not “put in any policies or best practices or anything like that,” with regard to drivers climbing onto the doorsill while celebrating.

Zilisch said he had surgery on his collarbone on Tuesday. The Xfinity Series points leader has not announced his status for the Aug. 22 race at Daytona International Speedway. He already used a playoff waiver for sitting out the May 2 event at Texas Motor Speedway because of a back injury.

Forde said Zilisch must request another waiver to remain eligible for the series championship if he misses Daytona or other races.

“He has to miss a race first, so we’re probably a good two weeks away from even receiving a waiver request from Connor,” Forde said. “We’ll get with the doctors and find out where he is.”

Forde said that if Zilisch was medically cleared to race but chose to miss races while healing before the playoffs, NASCAR would consider it.

Driver Alex Bowman, for example, missed a race in 2022 at Martinsville Speedway after being cleared during recovery from a concussion.

“It’s a case-by-case basis,” Forde said.

–Field Level Media

Nu Way Concrete Forms has been named the title sponsor for the upcoming NASCAR Xfinity Series race on September 6, 2025, at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. Coinciding with Nu Way’s 70th anniversary, the event will be known as the “Nu Way 200 Sauced by Blues Hog,” with the latter as a presenting sponsor. This race marks the Xfinity Series’ return to St. Louis after a 15-year absence and will kick off a weekend filled with racing and entertainment, including performances by country artists Ella Langley and Jon Pardi.

By the Numbers

• 200-mile race featuring 160 laps.
• First Xfinity Series race at WWTR in 15 years.

State of Play

• Both Nu Way and Blues Hog are local stalwarts in their respective industries.
• The race weekend includes the Enjoy Illinois 300 NASCAR Cup Series Playoff race on September 7.

What’s Next

Fans can expect a heightened atmosphere as the event approaches, with local businesses emphasizing community support and engagement. Ticket sales will likely see a boost due to the dual sponsorship and returning interest in live events.

Bottom Line

The Nu Way 200 represents a significant local partnership that bolsters both community pride and NASCAR’s appeal in the St. Louis area, making it a pivotal event in the racing calendar.

Blocking out the noise

In the competitive industry, she has learned to filter out the noise, literally and figuratively.

She says: “I don’t see myself differently because I’m a woman or because I’m young or because I’m Asian. To me, I try to perceive myself in the same way as everyone else.

“You know, the fact that I’m a woman, I’ve often been one of the only women in paddocks, within a team, or, you know, in like a technical role within a paddock and I try to just put that aside.

“I remember at the beginning being slightly daunted by it. But I try to focus on the factors that I can control.

“I can control my performance. I can control my attitude. I can control, okay, my actions. I can control things like choosing to help other people when they need it.

“So I focus on that. And I try to block the rest of it as noise.”

Her place in the paddock wasn’t handed to her – she built it, piece by piece, with data traces, late nights, and unwavering belief in herself.

Q. Laura Müller recently became F1’s first full-time female race engineer. When you see milestones like that, do they feel like personal victories too?

Nida Anis: “It’s great to see more representation on the grid, like across the paddock. For me, I guess I’m very focused on my own career path, my own journey.

“So, you know, I’ll see news about Laura Müller being a race engineer, and that’s really cool. That is really cool. And it’s another role model that I look up to.

“But at the end of the day as well, I have to remind myself that these people can do it, so I need to focus on how I can get up to that level.

“I recently had the pleasure of talking to Hannah Schmitz about race strategy at a Red Bull Racing International Women in Engineering Day event.

“And she was, you know, very articulate, very smart, you know, knows what she’s doing, where she’s coming from, how she’s going to talk about a particular situation or approach to a certain race.

“And it’s great to be able to see more role models for women and, I guess, for underrepresented groups in the motorsport industry.

“At the end of the day, though, I always evaluate my own career and I think, okay, what could I do better? What am I able to do better?

“And I try to focus on that as much as possible because I know that, I guess, there’s also an element of trying not to compare yourself too much to other people, because when you compare yourself too much to other people, you can lose track of what you’ve actually achieved.

“I always used to judge myself, actually, because I’m quite tomboyish. I don’t usually wear makeup, you know, well, I wear very, very little makeup. I don’t usually do my nails. I used to have very short hair for a long time.

“And I used to always compare myself to, you know, other women. I studied in two all-girls schools and I found it really difficult, because I was studying alongside people who more closely matched the normal image or the traditional stereotypical image of what a girl should look like.

“And I was like, I’m not that, you know, I’m tomboyish and rebellious. I’m quite outspoken. And I kept sort of judging myself for it and comparing myself to other women.

“And then I realised it’s sort of like focusing on your own race in a race meeting or focusing on your own journey. I realised, you know, just because other people do it doesn’t mean you have to match them exactly.

“You know, I have my hair dyed blue for this reason, actually. I’ve got like blue highlights in my black hair. And it’s because I like it and because, you know, it’s one of the things that I’ve done because, yeah, it’s not very conventional, but I do it because it’s a sign of my individuality.

“But yeah, I think it’s great to see increasing representation in motorsport. At the same time, I’ve just got to be focused on not comparing myself to others and reminding myself that, okay, you can do it too, but you don’t have to be a hundred percent like a carbon copy of them.

“And just recognising that is enough, I think. Just recognising that, yeah, that’s enough.”

She’s paying that forward, proving to young women everywhere that you don’t need to ‘fit to the narrative’ to break the narrative entirely.

READ MORE: What actually happens during the F1 summer break?