Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit TORA's website.

Measuring Sessions Hosted at SEMA Garage

TORA Members: the SEMA Garage has announced upcoming light-truck measuring sessions. Be sure to take advantage of getting your hands on these vehicles.

’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty

’17 Nissan Titan

’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty

The all-new ’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty is coming to the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, for a SoCal measuring session. This event will be a follow-up to the Dearborn, Michigan, measuring session, which will take place at Ford Motor Co. on April 27. This measuring session will feature the ’17 Ford Super Duty F-250 Lariat 4x4 Super Cab with the 6.7L 4-valve Power Stroke V8 diesel engine. Scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, May 17–18 at the SEMA Garage, this event is open exclusively to SEMA members. Don't miss your opportunity to get hands-on with the ’17 Super Duty and jumpstart your product development efforts. Ford staff will be on hand to offer technical support and access to CAD files for Tech Transfer participants. The Garage has specialty tools available, including spring measuring equipment, corner weight scales and a CMM machine (FaroArm must be operated by SEMA staff).

RSVP now!

’17 Nissan Titan and Titan XD

Just weeks following their global reveal at the 2016 New York Auto Show, the SEMA Garage has announced the arrival of two exciting all-new trucks from Nissan—the ’17 Titan half-ton pickup and its big brother, the ’17 Titan XD. As an alternative to the Titan XD’s 5.0L Cummins turbodiesel powerplant, both of these trucks share Nissan’s new 390hp 5.6L naturally aspirated Endurance V8 gasoline engine. But that’s where the similarities end, as the Titan is built on a completely separate chassis from Titan XD, and is nearly 15 in. shorter in overall length.

Both trucks will be production-spec ’17-MY crew cab 4x4 trucks. Nissan staff will be on-site to help answer any technical questions. Don't miss your opportunity to get hands-on with the all-new Titan and Titan XD to jumpstart your product development before these trucks reach showroom floors in mid-summer. As an added benefit, this measuring session is scheduled for May 19–20, immediately following the ’17 Ford Super Duty measuring session. For those traveling, ensure you’re scheduled to access both of these events in a single trip.

RSVP now!

Should you have any questions regarding this event, please contact Jim Moore at 909-978-6739 or jimm@sema.org.

TORA at the Dallas Truck & Jeep Fest

Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) leadership will attend this year’s Dallas Truck & Jeep Fest at the Dallas Market Hall. While the event takes place May 14–15, TORA leadership will meet at the event site Friday, May 13, to hold a Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting to give the council an opportunity to dive into the light-truck market and plan initiatives that will aid members throughout the year. During setup, council leadership will deliver lunch to exhibitors and introduce themselves.

In addition to the LRP meeting, TORA leadership will meet with council members throughout the show and facilitate networking between members. The select committee will represent the council in communicating the latest initiatives and provide TORA tools to assist manufacturers in reaching new buyers. Council leadership will also look to gain feedback from the general membership on the current challenges their companies are facing and how TORA can help.

For questions, contact Allan Keefe, senior manager of councils, at allank@sema.org or 909-978-6696.

Back to Top

Visit ARMO's website.

Matt Agosta

ARMO Congratulates Matt Agosta on his SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) recognizes Matt Agosta on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Agosta played an integral part in ARMO history serving as a former chairman of the council. ARMO looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

As a former SEMA Board member, past chairman of a SEMA council and a president’s club member of the SEMA Political Action Committee, Agosta is among the most active members in SEMA history. The president/CEO of Steele Rubber Products is a pioneer in advocating for legislative issues, forging relationships with OEMs and supporting small businesses to succeed. He is responsible for advancing educational opportunities for the industry, and has been on the forefront of utilizing the newest digital strategies for the industry’s growth. Past honors include the ARMO Chairman’s Award, ARMO Person of the Year award and SEMA Ambassador Award.

Back to Top

Visit HRIA's website

Chip Foose

HRIA Congratulates Chip Foose on His SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) recognizes Chip Foose on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Foose played an integral part in HRIA history and continues to make strides in the hot-rodding community. HRIA looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

As the star of the hit television show “Overhaulin’,” Foose is among the most well-known builders in the industry, and arguably responsible for introducing car customization and hot rodding to a mainstream audience worldwide. Before launching Foose Design, Foose created and fabricated projects for influential corporations and OEMs. His work can be seen in the National Football League, Major League Baseball and movies, including “Blade Runner,” “Robo Cop” and “Gone in 60 Seconds.” In 1997, Foose was the youngest person to ever be inducted into the Hot Rod Hall of Fame. He has also received the Goodguys Trendsetter Award and dozens of awards for winning vehicle builds.

SEMA Career Center Aligns With HRIA Futures in Hot Rodding Initiative

Futures in Hot Rodding continues to be a priority initiative for the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA). At its core, this program was built to promote and connect the industry’s next generation with hot-rodding careers. The automotive industry and this segment in particular, are driven by passion, community and camaraderie, and can be an exciting career opportunity for young people. The challenge with Futures in Hot Rodding has been the ability to connect the dots from interest to employment on a broad scale.

SEMA has recently introduced a new Career Center and Job Board that will help bridge the gap and create a talent pipeline into hot rodding. The SEMA Career Center will serve to address industry employment challenges, and through SEMA’s growing network of school contacts, create a direct link for young people looking to enter the automotive workforce.

HRIA is excited about this opportunity and encourages its membership to take advantage of this resource for your own business. As a community of hot rodders with a shared interest in promoting the hobby, we can effect change by sharing our respective job postings through social channels with a common tagline:  “another Futures in Hot Rodding job opening,” and then linking/sharing the actual job posting from the SEMA Career Center.  This will help to promote your own businesses, increase application views and create awareness for the hot-rodding industry as whole.

Be sure to check out SEMA’s Career Center. If you have a job opening to post, make it “another Futures in Hot Rodding job opening.”

For questions about the Career Center, contact SEMA’s Director of Education Zane Clark. For questions about HRIA, contact Council Director Jim Skelly.

Back to Top

Visit MPMC's website

Gary Hooker

MPMC Congratulates Gary Hooker on His SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) recognizes Gary Hooker on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Hooker played an integral part in MPMC history. MPMC looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

Hooker Headers is arguably one of the most iconic brands in the automotive performance industry. Even before SEMA was formed, Hooker was on the forefront of the industry, producing products used by winning racers, including Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins and Bob Glidden. As a junior stock-car racer and world-class Ironman competitor in the early ’60s, Hooker launched his business after creating a header for his personal use. The immediate interest and demand for his product led to a business that has grown along with the industry. Hooker’s innovation and passion continued to pave a path for what is now a $36 billion industry.

Back to Top

Visit YEN's website

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level.

Young Professionals Business Competition—Win Big!

Calling all young entrepreneurs with the next big automotive aftermarket product! The SEMA Launch Pad powered by YEN is a platform for you to transform your dream into a growing business.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level. Any executive with an automotive aftermarket product or service is encouraged to apply. You do not have to be a SEMA member to participate.

Ten finalists will be given the opportunity to pitch their product to industry icons in front of a live audience at the 2016 SEMA Show.
Prize packages include:

Semi-Finalist (14 participants):

• One-year complimentary SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 21–22).
• $500 grant to be used toward the cost of travel to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit.

Finalists (10 participants):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, and:
• Complimentary 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area.*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet.
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.

Winner (one participant):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, finalist prizes and:
• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA eNews: One full-page article.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Featured section in one article.
• SEMA Show: Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show*
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year. Up to a $3,600 value.
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA's “BizTips” video series.
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.
• Hot Rod Magazine: A page equivalent advertisement in Hot Rod magazine and 200k banners on the Hot Rod network.
• Family Events: Event-level sponsorship package to either a family events truck and off-road group property or a family events performance car group property.

* No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area or the turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show. All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

What are you waiting for? Learn more and launch your business today!

 Back to Top

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit TORA's website.

Measuring Sessions Hosted at SEMA Garage

TORA Members: the SEMA Garage has announced upcoming light-truck measuring sessions. Be sure to take advantage of getting your hands on these vehicles.

’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty

’17 Nissan Titan

’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty

The all-new ’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty is coming to the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, for a SoCal measuring session. This event will be a follow-up to the Dearborn, Michigan, measuring session, which will take place at Ford Motor Co. on April 27. This measuring session will feature the ’17 Ford Super Duty F-250 Lariat 4x4 Super Cab with the 6.7L 4-valve Power Stroke V8 diesel engine. Scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, May 17–18 at the SEMA Garage, this event is open exclusively to SEMA members. Don't miss your opportunity to get hands-on with the ’17 Super Duty and jumpstart your product development efforts. Ford staff will be on hand to offer technical support and access to CAD files for Tech Transfer participants. The Garage has specialty tools available, including spring measuring equipment, corner weight scales and a CMM machine (FaroArm must be operated by SEMA staff).

RSVP now!

’17 Nissan Titan and Titan XD

Just weeks following their global reveal at the 2016 New York Auto Show, the SEMA Garage has announced the arrival of two exciting all-new trucks from Nissan—the ’17 Titan half-ton pickup and its big brother, the ’17 Titan XD. As an alternative to the Titan XD’s 5.0L Cummins turbodiesel powerplant, both of these trucks share Nissan’s new 390hp 5.6L naturally aspirated Endurance V8 gasoline engine. But that’s where the similarities end, as the Titan is built on a completely separate chassis from Titan XD, and is nearly 15 in. shorter in overall length.

Both trucks will be production-spec ’17-MY crew cab 4x4 trucks. Nissan staff will be on-site to help answer any technical questions. Don't miss your opportunity to get hands-on with the all-new Titan and Titan XD to jumpstart your product development before these trucks reach showroom floors in mid-summer. As an added benefit, this measuring session is scheduled for May 19–20, immediately following the ’17 Ford Super Duty measuring session. For those traveling, ensure you’re scheduled to access both of these events in a single trip.

RSVP now!

Should you have any questions regarding this event, please contact Jim Moore at 909-978-6739 or jimm@sema.org.

TORA at the Dallas Truck & Jeep Fest

Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) leadership will attend this year’s Dallas Truck & Jeep Fest at the Dallas Market Hall. While the event takes place May 14–15, TORA leadership will meet at the event site Friday, May 13, to hold a Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting to give the council an opportunity to dive into the light-truck market and plan initiatives that will aid members throughout the year. During setup, council leadership will deliver lunch to exhibitors and introduce themselves.

In addition to the LRP meeting, TORA leadership will meet with council members throughout the show and facilitate networking between members. The select committee will represent the council in communicating the latest initiatives and provide TORA tools to assist manufacturers in reaching new buyers. Council leadership will also look to gain feedback from the general membership on the current challenges their companies are facing and how TORA can help.

For questions, contact Allan Keefe, senior manager of councils, at allank@sema.org or 909-978-6696.

Back to Top

Visit ARMO's website.

Matt Agosta

ARMO Congratulates Matt Agosta on his SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) recognizes Matt Agosta on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Agosta played an integral part in ARMO history serving as a former chairman of the council. ARMO looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

As a former SEMA Board member, past chairman of a SEMA council and a president’s club member of the SEMA Political Action Committee, Agosta is among the most active members in SEMA history. The president/CEO of Steele Rubber Products is a pioneer in advocating for legislative issues, forging relationships with OEMs and supporting small businesses to succeed. He is responsible for advancing educational opportunities for the industry, and has been on the forefront of utilizing the newest digital strategies for the industry’s growth. Past honors include the ARMO Chairman’s Award, ARMO Person of the Year award and SEMA Ambassador Award.

Back to Top

Visit HRIA's website

Chip Foose

HRIA Congratulates Chip Foose on His SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) recognizes Chip Foose on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Foose played an integral part in HRIA history and continues to make strides in the hot-rodding community. HRIA looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

As the star of the hit television show “Overhaulin’,” Foose is among the most well-known builders in the industry, and arguably responsible for introducing car customization and hot rodding to a mainstream audience worldwide. Before launching Foose Design, Foose created and fabricated projects for influential corporations and OEMs. His work can be seen in the National Football League, Major League Baseball and movies, including “Blade Runner,” “Robo Cop” and “Gone in 60 Seconds.” In 1997, Foose was the youngest person to ever be inducted into the Hot Rod Hall of Fame. He has also received the Goodguys Trendsetter Award and dozens of awards for winning vehicle builds.

SEMA Career Center Aligns With HRIA Futures in Hot Rodding Initiative

Futures in Hot Rodding continues to be a priority initiative for the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA). At its core, this program was built to promote and connect the industry’s next generation with hot-rodding careers. The automotive industry and this segment in particular, are driven by passion, community and camaraderie, and can be an exciting career opportunity for young people. The challenge with Futures in Hot Rodding has been the ability to connect the dots from interest to employment on a broad scale.

SEMA has recently introduced a new Career Center and Job Board that will help bridge the gap and create a talent pipeline into hot rodding. The SEMA Career Center will serve to address industry employment challenges, and through SEMA’s growing network of school contacts, create a direct link for young people looking to enter the automotive workforce.

HRIA is excited about this opportunity and encourages its membership to take advantage of this resource for your own business. As a community of hot rodders with a shared interest in promoting the hobby, we can effect change by sharing our respective job postings through social channels with a common tagline:  “another Futures in Hot Rodding job opening,” and then linking/sharing the actual job posting from the SEMA Career Center.  This will help to promote your own businesses, increase application views and create awareness for the hot-rodding industry as whole.

Be sure to check out SEMA’s Career Center. If you have a job opening to post, make it “another Futures in Hot Rodding job opening.”

For questions about the Career Center, contact SEMA’s Director of Education Zane Clark. For questions about HRIA, contact Council Director Jim Skelly.

Back to Top

Visit MPMC's website

Gary Hooker

MPMC Congratulates Gary Hooker on His SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) recognizes Gary Hooker on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Hooker played an integral part in MPMC history. MPMC looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

Hooker Headers is arguably one of the most iconic brands in the automotive performance industry. Even before SEMA was formed, Hooker was on the forefront of the industry, producing products used by winning racers, including Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins and Bob Glidden. As a junior stock-car racer and world-class Ironman competitor in the early ’60s, Hooker launched his business after creating a header for his personal use. The immediate interest and demand for his product led to a business that has grown along with the industry. Hooker’s innovation and passion continued to pave a path for what is now a $36 billion industry.

Back to Top

Visit YEN's website

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level.

Young Professionals Business Competition—Win Big!

Calling all young entrepreneurs with the next big automotive aftermarket product! The SEMA Launch Pad powered by YEN is a platform for you to transform your dream into a growing business.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level. Any executive with an automotive aftermarket product or service is encouraged to apply. You do not have to be a SEMA member to participate.

Ten finalists will be given the opportunity to pitch their product to industry icons in front of a live audience at the 2016 SEMA Show.
Prize packages include:

Semi-Finalist (14 participants):

• One-year complimentary SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 21–22).
• $500 grant to be used toward the cost of travel to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit.

Finalists (10 participants):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, and:
• Complimentary 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area.*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet.
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.

Winner (one participant):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, finalist prizes and:
• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA eNews: One full-page article.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Featured section in one article.
• SEMA Show: Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show*
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year. Up to a $3,600 value.
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA's “BizTips” video series.
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.
• Hot Rod Magazine: A page equivalent advertisement in Hot Rod magazine and 200k banners on the Hot Rod network.
• Family Events: Event-level sponsorship package to either a family events truck and off-road group property or a family events performance car group property.

* No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area or the turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show. All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

What are you waiting for? Learn more and launch your business today!

 Back to Top

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit TORA's website.

Measuring Sessions Hosted at SEMA Garage

TORA Members: the SEMA Garage has announced upcoming light-truck measuring sessions. Be sure to take advantage of getting your hands on these vehicles.

’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty

’17 Nissan Titan

’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty

The all-new ’17 Ford F-Series Super Duty is coming to the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, for a SoCal measuring session. This event will be a follow-up to the Dearborn, Michigan, measuring session, which will take place at Ford Motor Co. on April 27. This measuring session will feature the ’17 Ford Super Duty F-250 Lariat 4x4 Super Cab with the 6.7L 4-valve Power Stroke V8 diesel engine. Scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, May 17–18 at the SEMA Garage, this event is open exclusively to SEMA members. Don't miss your opportunity to get hands-on with the ’17 Super Duty and jumpstart your product development efforts. Ford staff will be on hand to offer technical support and access to CAD files for Tech Transfer participants. The Garage has specialty tools available, including spring measuring equipment, corner weight scales and a CMM machine (FaroArm must be operated by SEMA staff).

RSVP now!

’17 Nissan Titan and Titan XD

Just weeks following their global reveal at the 2016 New York Auto Show, the SEMA Garage has announced the arrival of two exciting all-new trucks from Nissan—the ’17 Titan half-ton pickup and its big brother, the ’17 Titan XD. As an alternative to the Titan XD’s 5.0L Cummins turbodiesel powerplant, both of these trucks share Nissan’s new 390hp 5.6L naturally aspirated Endurance V8 gasoline engine. But that’s where the similarities end, as the Titan is built on a completely separate chassis from Titan XD, and is nearly 15 in. shorter in overall length.

Both trucks will be production-spec ’17-MY crew cab 4x4 trucks. Nissan staff will be on-site to help answer any technical questions. Don't miss your opportunity to get hands-on with the all-new Titan and Titan XD to jumpstart your product development before these trucks reach showroom floors in mid-summer. As an added benefit, this measuring session is scheduled for May 19–20, immediately following the ’17 Ford Super Duty measuring session. For those traveling, ensure you’re scheduled to access both of these events in a single trip.

RSVP now!

Should you have any questions regarding this event, please contact Jim Moore at 909-978-6739 or jimm@sema.org.

TORA at the Dallas Truck & Jeep Fest

Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) leadership will attend this year’s Dallas Truck & Jeep Fest at the Dallas Market Hall. While the event takes place May 14–15, TORA leadership will meet at the event site Friday, May 13, to hold a Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting to give the council an opportunity to dive into the light-truck market and plan initiatives that will aid members throughout the year. During setup, council leadership will deliver lunch to exhibitors and introduce themselves.

In addition to the LRP meeting, TORA leadership will meet with council members throughout the show and facilitate networking between members. The select committee will represent the council in communicating the latest initiatives and provide TORA tools to assist manufacturers in reaching new buyers. Council leadership will also look to gain feedback from the general membership on the current challenges their companies are facing and how TORA can help.

For questions, contact Allan Keefe, senior manager of councils, at allank@sema.org or 909-978-6696.

Back to Top

Visit ARMO's website.

Matt Agosta

ARMO Congratulates Matt Agosta on his SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) recognizes Matt Agosta on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Agosta played an integral part in ARMO history serving as a former chairman of the council. ARMO looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

As a former SEMA Board member, past chairman of a SEMA council and a president’s club member of the SEMA Political Action Committee, Agosta is among the most active members in SEMA history. The president/CEO of Steele Rubber Products is a pioneer in advocating for legislative issues, forging relationships with OEMs and supporting small businesses to succeed. He is responsible for advancing educational opportunities for the industry, and has been on the forefront of utilizing the newest digital strategies for the industry’s growth. Past honors include the ARMO Chairman’s Award, ARMO Person of the Year award and SEMA Ambassador Award.

Back to Top

Visit HRIA's website

Chip Foose

HRIA Congratulates Chip Foose on His SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) recognizes Chip Foose on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Foose played an integral part in HRIA history and continues to make strides in the hot-rodding community. HRIA looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

As the star of the hit television show “Overhaulin’,” Foose is among the most well-known builders in the industry, and arguably responsible for introducing car customization and hot rodding to a mainstream audience worldwide. Before launching Foose Design, Foose created and fabricated projects for influential corporations and OEMs. His work can be seen in the National Football League, Major League Baseball and movies, including “Blade Runner,” “Robo Cop” and “Gone in 60 Seconds.” In 1997, Foose was the youngest person to ever be inducted into the Hot Rod Hall of Fame. He has also received the Goodguys Trendsetter Award and dozens of awards for winning vehicle builds.

SEMA Career Center Aligns With HRIA Futures in Hot Rodding Initiative

Futures in Hot Rodding continues to be a priority initiative for the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA). At its core, this program was built to promote and connect the industry’s next generation with hot-rodding careers. The automotive industry and this segment in particular, are driven by passion, community and camaraderie, and can be an exciting career opportunity for young people. The challenge with Futures in Hot Rodding has been the ability to connect the dots from interest to employment on a broad scale.

SEMA has recently introduced a new Career Center and Job Board that will help bridge the gap and create a talent pipeline into hot rodding. The SEMA Career Center will serve to address industry employment challenges, and through SEMA’s growing network of school contacts, create a direct link for young people looking to enter the automotive workforce.

HRIA is excited about this opportunity and encourages its membership to take advantage of this resource for your own business. As a community of hot rodders with a shared interest in promoting the hobby, we can effect change by sharing our respective job postings through social channels with a common tagline:  “another Futures in Hot Rodding job opening,” and then linking/sharing the actual job posting from the SEMA Career Center.  This will help to promote your own businesses, increase application views and create awareness for the hot-rodding industry as whole.

Be sure to check out SEMA’s Career Center. If you have a job opening to post, make it “another Futures in Hot Rodding job opening.”

For questions about the Career Center, contact SEMA’s Director of Education Zane Clark. For questions about HRIA, contact Council Director Jim Skelly.

Back to Top

Visit MPMC's website

Gary Hooker

MPMC Congratulates Gary Hooker on His SEMA Hall of Fame Induction

The Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) recognizes Gary Hooker on his honorable induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame. Hooker played an integral part in MPMC history. MPMC looks forward to celebrating his inauguration at the 2016 SEMA Installation Gala.

Hooker Headers is arguably one of the most iconic brands in the automotive performance industry. Even before SEMA was formed, Hooker was on the forefront of the industry, producing products used by winning racers, including Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins and Bob Glidden. As a junior stock-car racer and world-class Ironman competitor in the early ’60s, Hooker launched his business after creating a header for his personal use. The immediate interest and demand for his product led to a business that has grown along with the industry. Hooker’s innovation and passion continued to pave a path for what is now a $36 billion industry.

Back to Top

Visit YEN's website

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level.

Young Professionals Business Competition—Win Big!

Calling all young entrepreneurs with the next big automotive aftermarket product! The SEMA Launch Pad powered by YEN is a platform for you to transform your dream into a growing business.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level. Any executive with an automotive aftermarket product or service is encouraged to apply. You do not have to be a SEMA member to participate.

Ten finalists will be given the opportunity to pitch their product to industry icons in front of a live audience at the 2016 SEMA Show.
Prize packages include:

Semi-Finalist (14 participants):

• One-year complimentary SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 21–22).
• $500 grant to be used toward the cost of travel to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit.

Finalists (10 participants):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, and:
• Complimentary 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area.*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet.
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.

Winner (one participant):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, finalist prizes and:
• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA eNews: One full-page article.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Featured section in one article.
• SEMA Show: Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show*
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year. Up to a $3,600 value.
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA's “BizTips” video series.
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.
• Hot Rod Magazine: A page equivalent advertisement in Hot Rod magazine and 200k banners on the Hot Rod network.
• Family Events: Event-level sponsorship package to either a family events truck and off-road group property or a family events performance car group property.

* No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area or the turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show. All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

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By SEMA Editors

Following are dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows, measuring sessions and activities.

For association-related travel, contact Manya Petropaki (manya.p@travelstoreusa.com) at Travel Store USA, 949-930-9268.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Matt Field took the victory at the Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge.

Matt Field Takes Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge Victory

Formula DRIFT presented by BlackVue returned to Long Beach, California, to host the Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge as part of the 42nd Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, where Matt Field in the Falken Tire/Drift Cave Nissan S14 took the victory. The Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge for the fourth consecutive year brought motorsports action under the lights during the annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach with a filled capacity within Turns 9, 10, and 11 of the famous street course. Select Formula DRIFT drivers competed for a $25,000 prize purse. The Top 4 pitted Odi Bakchis, the number qualifier, against Michael Essa, who outdrove his opponent to move into the finals. Field then faced Dean Kearney and capitalized on his opponent making a mistake to meet Essa in the final battle. On his lead run, Essa spun giving the advantage to Field and ultimately the event victory. The 2016 Formula DRIFT Pro Championship will continue to Round 2: Road to the Championship, May 6–7 at Road Atlanta.

Tomahawk Speedway Selects VP Racing Fuels as Official Supplier 

Officials at recently reopened Tomahawk Speedway in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, have announced a multi-year agreement naming VP Racing Fuels as the track’s official fuel beginning in 2016. The agreement calls for Remington Oil—VP’s distributor based in Antigo, Wisconsin—to be the track’s exclusive supplier of race fuel. The agreement also designates VP as the primary sponsor of the track’s points fund. To be eligible for end-of-year points prizes, racers must purchase one five-gallon pail of VP fuel per race or one 54-gallon drum to cover 11 points races. 

In 2015, Atturo drivers Travis Dinsmore #43 and Andrew Carlson #151 brought home six podium finishes and two outright wins, including the season-ending Crandon World Championships.

Atturo Renews Sponsorship with TORC: The Off-Road Championship in 2016

Atturo Tires has announced its return to TORC: The Off-Road Championship this season with a renewed commitment to PRO Light racing. Under the extended sponsorship, the popular class of truck racing will be known as Atturo Tires PRO Light in 2016. In the Atturo Tires PRO Light class, race champions mix it up with rising stars for competition between 500hp trucks on DOT street-legal tires. Under the sponsorship agreement, Atturo will also join TORC’s live digital broadcasts and become an active partner on series social media channels. In 2015, Atturo drivers Travis Dinsmore #43 and Andrew Carlson #151 brought home six podium finishes and two outright wins, including the season-ending Crandon World Championships. For 2016, both drivers return looking to increase their multiple victories and podiums earned last season.

50th Anniversary Camaro SS to Pace Indianapolis 500

A unique version of the new, ’17 Camaro SS 50th Anniversary Edition will lead the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 next month, driven by motorsports legend Roger Penske, who is marking 50 years as a race team owner. It’s the ninth time Camaro has served as the pace car and the 27th time for Chevrolet, dating back to 1948. Four identically prepared pace cars will support the race, all with exclusive Abalone White exteriors featuring “100th Running of the Indianapolis 500” graphics on the doors and the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway wing-and-wheel logo on the quarter panels. They also incorporate the exterior cues and graphics that are unique to the Camaro 50th Anniversary package that goes on sale this summer.

Rod Hall will pilot his Ford Bronco in the 2016 General Tire National Off-Road Racing Association Mexican 1000.

Off-Road Racing Legend Rod Hall Tackles Baja for His 50th Run

By Chris Collard

Last year, Rod Hall pulled his championship Ford Bronco, in which he won the 1969 Mexican 1000, from the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame’s (ORMHOF) museum in Reno, Nevada, and sent it to Samco Fabrication for a full restoration. The Bronco, which was built by Bill Stroppe, has a past is as storied as Hall himself. After Hall and teammate Larry Minor drove it to an overall win in the 1969 Mexican 1000, it was sold, raced, resold and then retired to a Barstow, California, junkyard. Half-buried in sand and nearly forgotten, it was discovered by a local race fan and restaurant owner, and put on display in front of a Denny’s. In 2003, it was donated to ORMHOF and found its way back to Hall. On April 24, Hall, who has achieved more podium finishes than any American off-road racer, including 24 Baja 1000 Class wins and the only overall win in a four-wheel drive vehicle, will slip behind the wheel and again pilot his old steed down the peninsula in the 2016 General Tire National Off-Road Racing Association (NORRA) Mexican 1000. It will be a monumental 50th 1,000-mile Baja race for Hall.

SPEEDVEGAS Track Officially Opens

SPEEDVEGAS, founded by Aaron Fessler and Tom Mizzone, recently celebrated its ceremonial track opening, marking the first in a series of opening events for the Las Vegas racetrack. Guests at SPEEDVEGAS experience musclecars and exotic supercars from Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi and Corvette. SPEEDVEGAS features a 1.5-mile Formula One-inspired racetrack and includes 12 sweeping turns, 20-degree banked turns, 60 ft. of total elevation change and a half-mile straightaway. The rest of the $30 million, 100-acre motorsports complex will open this summer, including a 22,000-sq.-ft., two-story welcome center featuring indoor and outdoor observation decks, a café and meetings and event space.

The 2016 NMRA Keystone Automotive Drag Racing Series invaded Commerce, Georgia, over the weekend of April 8–10, 2016, for the 8th Annual Borla Exhaust NMRA/NMCA All Star Nationals presented by Miller Welders.

NMRA Race Wrap for 8th Annual Borla Exhaust NMRA/NMCA All-Star Nationals

The 2016 NMRA Keystone Automotive Drag Racing Series invaded Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Georgia, over the weekend of April 8–10, 2016, for the 8th Annual Borla Exhaust NMRA/NMCA All Star Nationals presented by Miller Welders.

VP Racing Fuels/Wiseco Street Outlaw: Jarod Wenrick pushed his ’66 Nova to the limit and crossed the finish in 4.819 seconds at 151.56 mph to take the win over Ronnie Diaz for the NMCA crew.

Edelbrock Renegade: Aaron Bates’ 7.925 at 178.97 mph pass bested Terry “Beefcake” Reeves’ effort.

ProCharger Coyote Modified: JPC Racing’s Jeff Polivka and his ’13 Boss 302’s 8.078 at 169.61 mph pass secured the victory over JLP Racing’s Johnny "Lightning" Wiker and his '13 Super Cobra Jet.

G-Force Transmissions Pure Street: Terry Weaver came out ahead with a 9.599 at 139.13 mph performance over Jimmy Wilson’s 9.927 at 139.26 mph one.

American Racing Headers Factory Stock: James Meredith took the trip to the Aerospace Components Winner's Circle thanks to his winning 10.725 at 124.81 mph pass over Louis Sylvester Jr.

Race Pages Coyote Stock: Jacob Lamb scored a 10.300 at 129.44 mph blast against Steve “The Farmer” Gifford.

Roush Performance Super Stang: Darrel Bye crossed the stripe to secure the win over Larry Firestone and a trip to the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle.

Race Pages Ford Muscle: Chris Parisi was deemed the champion over Miles Wagoner and earned a spot in the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle.

Exedy Racing Clutch Modular Muscle: Charlie McCulloch defeated Shane Williams.

Flex-a-lite Open Comp: Wade Trammell earned the win over Richard Belcher with a 10.151 elapsed time on his 10.15-second index.

Detroit Locker Truck & Lightning: Amanda Saad, the number-six qualifier, defeated Nina Gusler, the number-three qualifier.

Coyote Stock vs. Chevrolet Performance Stock presented by Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center: NMRA was pitted against NMCA. Joseph Marini’s ’11 Mustang came out ahead with his 10.495-second run to Ronnie Hackelton’s ’13 Camaro’s 10.479-second attempt, and picked up the win for team NMRA.

QA1 True Street: Russell Haskins took the overall win with his ’96 Mustang and an average of 9.382. In the nine-second category, Donnie Gilder came out on top. Jason Riley took the winner's honors in the 10-second group, while Brandon Conner was king of the 11-second section. For the 12-second cars, Mike Baker was named the winner, followed by Robin Whiteford-Quinton for the 13-second group, Brian Walkington for the 14-second group and James Rowell rounding it out for the 15-second cars.

Next up, NMRA rolls into Maple Grove Raceway in Reading, Pennsylvania, for the 16th Annual WyoTech NMRA Ford Motorsport Nationals presented Juggernaut Power, April 28–May 1, 2016.

VP Racing Fuels Inc. will sponsor Danielle Murphy for the 2016 season.

VP Racing Fuels to Sponsor European Drifting Champion Danielle Murphy

Officials with VP Racing Fuels Inc. have announced its sponsorship of Danielle Murphy for the 2016 season. Winner of the European Drifting Championship last year and in 2013, Murphy will be powered by VP’s C16 racing fuel in her quest to repeat as “Queen of Europe” in 2016.  She’ll also use VP Racing Lubricants to protect her engine.

International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Banquet to Be telecast on MAVTV in Early May 2016

The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing—home of the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame—and MAVTV have announced the 26th annual International Drag Racing Hall of Fame presented by Lucas Oil induction banquet will again be televised on the MAVTV cable channel. The dinner gala will be presented as a special 30-minute MAVTV program with two airings on Thursday, May 5, 2016. The first airing will be at 5:30 p.m. (EDT), and the second airing will be at 8:30 p.m. (EDT). The program will re-air May 12, 19 and 26 at the same times. The telecast was recorded and produced by the Masters Entertainment Group of Bristol, Tennessee. The program features the introduction of the Class of 2016 inductees:  Preston Davis, Jack Doyle, the late Marvin Miller, Mark Oswald, Dennis Priddle and “Gas” (Gaspar) Ronda, plus the Founder’s Award recipient Steve Earwood and the Pat Garlits Memorial Award honoree Laurie Force. Bob Frey was the emcee.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Matt Field took the victory at the Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge.

Matt Field Takes Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge Victory

Formula DRIFT presented by BlackVue returned to Long Beach, California, to host the Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge as part of the 42nd Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, where Matt Field in the Falken Tire/Drift Cave Nissan S14 took the victory. The Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge for the fourth consecutive year brought motorsports action under the lights during the annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach with a filled capacity within Turns 9, 10, and 11 of the famous street course. Select Formula DRIFT drivers competed for a $25,000 prize purse. The Top 4 pitted Odi Bakchis, the number qualifier, against Michael Essa, who outdrove his opponent to move into the finals. Field then faced Dean Kearney and capitalized on his opponent making a mistake to meet Essa in the final battle. On his lead run, Essa spun giving the advantage to Field and ultimately the event victory. The 2016 Formula DRIFT Pro Championship will continue to Round 2: Road to the Championship, May 6–7 at Road Atlanta.

Tomahawk Speedway Selects VP Racing Fuels as Official Supplier 

Officials at recently reopened Tomahawk Speedway in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, have announced a multi-year agreement naming VP Racing Fuels as the track’s official fuel beginning in 2016. The agreement calls for Remington Oil—VP’s distributor based in Antigo, Wisconsin—to be the track’s exclusive supplier of race fuel. The agreement also designates VP as the primary sponsor of the track’s points fund. To be eligible for end-of-year points prizes, racers must purchase one five-gallon pail of VP fuel per race or one 54-gallon drum to cover 11 points races. 

In 2015, Atturo drivers Travis Dinsmore #43 and Andrew Carlson #151 brought home six podium finishes and two outright wins, including the season-ending Crandon World Championships.

Atturo Renews Sponsorship with TORC: The Off-Road Championship in 2016

Atturo Tires has announced its return to TORC: The Off-Road Championship this season with a renewed commitment to PRO Light racing. Under the extended sponsorship, the popular class of truck racing will be known as Atturo Tires PRO Light in 2016. In the Atturo Tires PRO Light class, race champions mix it up with rising stars for competition between 500hp trucks on DOT street-legal tires. Under the sponsorship agreement, Atturo will also join TORC’s live digital broadcasts and become an active partner on series social media channels. In 2015, Atturo drivers Travis Dinsmore #43 and Andrew Carlson #151 brought home six podium finishes and two outright wins, including the season-ending Crandon World Championships. For 2016, both drivers return looking to increase their multiple victories and podiums earned last season.

50th Anniversary Camaro SS to Pace Indianapolis 500

A unique version of the new, ’17 Camaro SS 50th Anniversary Edition will lead the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 next month, driven by motorsports legend Roger Penske, who is marking 50 years as a race team owner. It’s the ninth time Camaro has served as the pace car and the 27th time for Chevrolet, dating back to 1948. Four identically prepared pace cars will support the race, all with exclusive Abalone White exteriors featuring “100th Running of the Indianapolis 500” graphics on the doors and the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway wing-and-wheel logo on the quarter panels. They also incorporate the exterior cues and graphics that are unique to the Camaro 50th Anniversary package that goes on sale this summer.

Rod Hall will pilot his Ford Bronco in the 2016 General Tire National Off-Road Racing Association Mexican 1000.

Off-Road Racing Legend Rod Hall Tackles Baja for His 50th Run

By Chris Collard

Last year, Rod Hall pulled his championship Ford Bronco, in which he won the 1969 Mexican 1000, from the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame’s (ORMHOF) museum in Reno, Nevada, and sent it to Samco Fabrication for a full restoration. The Bronco, which was built by Bill Stroppe, has a past is as storied as Hall himself. After Hall and teammate Larry Minor drove it to an overall win in the 1969 Mexican 1000, it was sold, raced, resold and then retired to a Barstow, California, junkyard. Half-buried in sand and nearly forgotten, it was discovered by a local race fan and restaurant owner, and put on display in front of a Denny’s. In 2003, it was donated to ORMHOF and found its way back to Hall. On April 24, Hall, who has achieved more podium finishes than any American off-road racer, including 24 Baja 1000 Class wins and the only overall win in a four-wheel drive vehicle, will slip behind the wheel and again pilot his old steed down the peninsula in the 2016 General Tire National Off-Road Racing Association (NORRA) Mexican 1000. It will be a monumental 50th 1,000-mile Baja race for Hall.

SPEEDVEGAS Track Officially Opens

SPEEDVEGAS, founded by Aaron Fessler and Tom Mizzone, recently celebrated its ceremonial track opening, marking the first in a series of opening events for the Las Vegas racetrack. Guests at SPEEDVEGAS experience musclecars and exotic supercars from Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi and Corvette. SPEEDVEGAS features a 1.5-mile Formula One-inspired racetrack and includes 12 sweeping turns, 20-degree banked turns, 60 ft. of total elevation change and a half-mile straightaway. The rest of the $30 million, 100-acre motorsports complex will open this summer, including a 22,000-sq.-ft., two-story welcome center featuring indoor and outdoor observation decks, a café and meetings and event space.

The 2016 NMRA Keystone Automotive Drag Racing Series invaded Commerce, Georgia, over the weekend of April 8–10, 2016, for the 8th Annual Borla Exhaust NMRA/NMCA All Star Nationals presented by Miller Welders.

NMRA Race Wrap for 8th Annual Borla Exhaust NMRA/NMCA All-Star Nationals

The 2016 NMRA Keystone Automotive Drag Racing Series invaded Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Georgia, over the weekend of April 8–10, 2016, for the 8th Annual Borla Exhaust NMRA/NMCA All Star Nationals presented by Miller Welders.

VP Racing Fuels/Wiseco Street Outlaw: Jarod Wenrick pushed his ’66 Nova to the limit and crossed the finish in 4.819 seconds at 151.56 mph to take the win over Ronnie Diaz for the NMCA crew.

Edelbrock Renegade: Aaron Bates’ 7.925 at 178.97 mph pass bested Terry “Beefcake” Reeves’ effort.

ProCharger Coyote Modified: JPC Racing’s Jeff Polivka and his ’13 Boss 302’s 8.078 at 169.61 mph pass secured the victory over JLP Racing’s Johnny "Lightning" Wiker and his '13 Super Cobra Jet.

G-Force Transmissions Pure Street: Terry Weaver came out ahead with a 9.599 at 139.13 mph performance over Jimmy Wilson’s 9.927 at 139.26 mph one.

American Racing Headers Factory Stock: James Meredith took the trip to the Aerospace Components Winner's Circle thanks to his winning 10.725 at 124.81 mph pass over Louis Sylvester Jr.

Race Pages Coyote Stock: Jacob Lamb scored a 10.300 at 129.44 mph blast against Steve “The Farmer” Gifford.

Roush Performance Super Stang: Darrel Bye crossed the stripe to secure the win over Larry Firestone and a trip to the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle.

Race Pages Ford Muscle: Chris Parisi was deemed the champion over Miles Wagoner and earned a spot in the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle.

Exedy Racing Clutch Modular Muscle: Charlie McCulloch defeated Shane Williams.

Flex-a-lite Open Comp: Wade Trammell earned the win over Richard Belcher with a 10.151 elapsed time on his 10.15-second index.

Detroit Locker Truck & Lightning: Amanda Saad, the number-six qualifier, defeated Nina Gusler, the number-three qualifier.

Coyote Stock vs. Chevrolet Performance Stock presented by Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center: NMRA was pitted against NMCA. Joseph Marini’s ’11 Mustang came out ahead with his 10.495-second run to Ronnie Hackelton’s ’13 Camaro’s 10.479-second attempt, and picked up the win for team NMRA.

QA1 True Street: Russell Haskins took the overall win with his ’96 Mustang and an average of 9.382. In the nine-second category, Donnie Gilder came out on top. Jason Riley took the winner's honors in the 10-second group, while Brandon Conner was king of the 11-second section. For the 12-second cars, Mike Baker was named the winner, followed by Robin Whiteford-Quinton for the 13-second group, Brian Walkington for the 14-second group and James Rowell rounding it out for the 15-second cars.

Next up, NMRA rolls into Maple Grove Raceway in Reading, Pennsylvania, for the 16th Annual WyoTech NMRA Ford Motorsport Nationals presented Juggernaut Power, April 28–May 1, 2016.

VP Racing Fuels Inc. will sponsor Danielle Murphy for the 2016 season.

VP Racing Fuels to Sponsor European Drifting Champion Danielle Murphy

Officials with VP Racing Fuels Inc. have announced its sponsorship of Danielle Murphy for the 2016 season. Winner of the European Drifting Championship last year and in 2013, Murphy will be powered by VP’s C16 racing fuel in her quest to repeat as “Queen of Europe” in 2016.  She’ll also use VP Racing Lubricants to protect her engine.

International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Banquet to Be telecast on MAVTV in Early May 2016

The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing—home of the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame—and MAVTV have announced the 26th annual International Drag Racing Hall of Fame presented by Lucas Oil induction banquet will again be televised on the MAVTV cable channel. The dinner gala will be presented as a special 30-minute MAVTV program with two airings on Thursday, May 5, 2016. The first airing will be at 5:30 p.m. (EDT), and the second airing will be at 8:30 p.m. (EDT). The program will re-air May 12, 19 and 26 at the same times. The telecast was recorded and produced by the Masters Entertainment Group of Bristol, Tennessee. The program features the introduction of the Class of 2016 inductees:  Preston Davis, Jack Doyle, the late Marvin Miller, Mark Oswald, Dennis Priddle and “Gas” (Gaspar) Ronda, plus the Founder’s Award recipient Steve Earwood and the Pat Garlits Memorial Award honoree Laurie Force. Bob Frey was the emcee.

By Becca Butler

TV production teams were in full force at the 2015 SEMA Show, and this weekend you can catch some of the action.

The viewing begins Friday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. (EDT), as the new TV show, “Competition Ready” premieres on the Velocity Network. Hosted by “Overhaulin’s” Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Autogeek.com’s Mike Phillips, the show features top custom-car builders as they enter the final stages of completing signature, one-of-a-kind vehicles for the country’s largest car competitions, shows and auctions. In the premiere episode, Phillips and his A-team rush to the SEMA Show to help Detroit Speed’s Kyle Tucker get his newly built ’70 Chevelle ready for the second-annual SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. Once the car is unloaded from the truck, Phillips and the guys have only six hours to make Tucker’s Chevelle competition ready.

The excitement continues Saturday, April 23, at 8:00 p.m. (EDT), when the coveted SEMA Battle of the Builders special airs on the Velocity Network. As nearly 300 competitors vie for the title of the ultimate vehicle builder, expert judges narrow the selection down to 10 finalists who then vote among themselves for the winner.

Tune in and relive the excitement from the 2015 SEMA Show this weekend on Velocity!

By Becca Butler

TV production teams were in full force at the 2015 SEMA Show, and this weekend you can catch some of the action.

The viewing begins Friday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. (EDT), as the new TV show, “Competition Ready” premieres on the Velocity Network. Hosted by “Overhaulin’s” Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Autogeek.com’s Mike Phillips, the show features top custom-car builders as they enter the final stages of completing signature, one-of-a-kind vehicles for the country’s largest car competitions, shows and auctions. In the premiere episode, Phillips and his A-team rush to the SEMA Show to help Detroit Speed’s Kyle Tucker get his newly built ’70 Chevelle ready for the second-annual SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. Once the car is unloaded from the truck, Phillips and the guys have only six hours to make Tucker’s Chevelle competition ready.

The excitement continues Saturday, April 23, at 8:00 p.m. (EDT), when the coveted SEMA Battle of the Builders special airs on the Velocity Network. As nearly 300 competitors vie for the title of the ultimate vehicle builder, expert judges narrow the selection down to 10 finalists who then vote among themselves for the winner.

Tune in and relive the excitement from the 2015 SEMA Show this weekend on Velocity!

By Becca Butler

TV production teams were in full force at the 2015 SEMA Show, and this weekend you can catch some of the action.

The viewing begins Friday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. (EDT), as the new TV show, “Competition Ready” premieres on the Velocity Network. Hosted by “Overhaulin’s” Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Autogeek.com’s Mike Phillips, the show features top custom-car builders as they enter the final stages of completing signature, one-of-a-kind vehicles for the country’s largest car competitions, shows and auctions. In the premiere episode, Phillips and his A-team rush to the SEMA Show to help Detroit Speed’s Kyle Tucker get his newly built ’70 Chevelle ready for the second-annual SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. Once the car is unloaded from the truck, Phillips and the guys have only six hours to make Tucker’s Chevelle competition ready.

The excitement continues Saturday, April 23, at 8:00 p.m. (EDT), when the coveted SEMA Battle of the Builders special airs on the Velocity Network. As nearly 300 competitors vie for the title of the ultimate vehicle builder, expert judges narrow the selection down to 10 finalists who then vote among themselves for the winner.

Tune in and relive the excitement from the 2015 SEMA Show this weekend on Velocity!

By Becca Butler

TV production teams were in full force at the 2015 SEMA Show, and this weekend you can catch some of the action.

The viewing begins Friday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. (EDT), as the new TV show, “Competition Ready” premieres on the Velocity Network. Hosted by “Overhaulin’s” Adrienne “AJ” Janic and Autogeek.com’s Mike Phillips, the show features top custom-car builders as they enter the final stages of completing signature, one-of-a-kind vehicles for the country’s largest car competitions, shows and auctions. In the premiere episode, Phillips and his A-team rush to the SEMA Show to help Detroit Speed’s Kyle Tucker get his newly built ’70 Chevelle ready for the second-annual SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. Once the car is unloaded from the truck, Phillips and the guys have only six hours to make Tucker’s Chevelle competition ready.

The excitement continues Saturday, April 23, at 8:00 p.m. (EDT), when the coveted SEMA Battle of the Builders special airs on the Velocity Network. As nearly 300 competitors vie for the title of the ultimate vehicle builder, expert judges narrow the selection down to 10 finalists who then vote among themselves for the winner.

Tune in and relive the excitement from the 2015 SEMA Show this weekend on Velocity!