Spire Motorsports is set to compete in a high-stakes event this weekend featuring multiple races, including the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series at Daytona. Drivers Michael McDowell and Carson Hocevar will both be pushing hard in their Chevrolet Silverado RST trucks, aiming to make a strong statement in this fiercely competitive national series. Their preparation highlights a blend of experience, anticipation, and determination to secure victories across all three racing series.
Michael McDowell Builds Confidence in Truck Racing
Michael McDowell, driving the No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado RST, reflected on his growth entering this weekend’s event. After a decade away from racing trucks on superspeedways, McDowell has worked to sharpen his skills, gaining familiarity with critical aspects like shift points, gear management, and drafting tactics, which are essential on Daytona’s high-speed track.
“The CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race is going to be fun. I was a little anxious going into last year, not racing a truck on a superspeedway, and I had not been in a truck for over 10 years. I feel much more confident now, just knowing the shift points, getting through the gears, how the trucks race, and how they draft.” – Michael McDowell, Driver
McDowell also expressed enthusiasm about sponsorship collaborations, notably with Tibbetts Lumber, marking their first partnership in the truck series. This connection is personal as Tibbetts Lumber helped him with a home project last year, reinforcing his excitement to represent them on the track.
“I am also eager to have Tibbetts Lumber on the truck for the first time. They helped me with a home project, building a new shop onto my house last year, so I am looking forward to having them on the truck and continue to work with them. Daytona is just another opportunity to try to win in all three series, which is a goal of mine. It’s tough to win in any series, any of the national series is tough, but my goal is to check that box for a win in all three series.” – Michael McDowell, Driver
Behind the scenes, crew chief Brian Pattie is focused on ensuring the No. 7 truck performs at its peak throughout the weekend’s race program.
Carson Hocevar Prepares for a Demanding Triple Race Weekend
Carson Hocevar, piloting the No. 77 Chevrolet Silverado RST, faces a rigorous schedule by competing in three distinct events over the same weekend. He voiced his excitement for the opportunity while acknowledging the challenges of adapting across different vehicles and race formats, particularly the pressure of the prestigious Daytona 500.
“I’m really excited to have the opportunity to run all three. It can’t hurt to be on track. All three vehicles are so different. The Daytona 500 is obviously a very serious moment and there is a lot of pressure surrounding it, but we have two races to have fun and enjoy the experience, all while chasing a trophy. I’m excited to have three shots at it, and excited to kick it off with IKEA and Best Buy Friday night.” – Carson Hocevar, Driver
Hocevar also commented on returning to drafting tracks in the truck series after a nearly three-year break. He acknowledged that while the trucks may handle somewhat differently now, his enthusiasm and readiness to compete remain strong.
“As you can tell from the entry list, this may as well be a Cup race. I’m excited and ready to go. I always liked the drafting tracks in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, but never really got the finishes. It’s been a while, and they will probably drive a little different than I remember, but I am excited and ready to go.” – Carson Hocevar, Driver
Implications for Spire Motorsports and the Truck Series
This triple-race weekend marks an important test for Spire Motorsports as they endeavor to make history with wins across all NASCAR national series. Both McDowell and Hocevar bring a mix of experience and ambition, supported by strong crew leadership and meaningful sponsorships. Success at Daytona would be a significant career milestone and elevate the team’s presence within the racing community.
Looking ahead, the strong performances and lessons learned from this event will likely shape Spire Motorsports’ strategy and confidence in upcoming races, while intensifying their pursuit of victories in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and beyond.
