CONCORD, N.C. — In a continued effort to put safety at the forefront, World Racing Group is expanding its safety efforts to the American Sprint Car Series with the addition of the ASCS Fire and Rescue Team.
Like the addition of a traveling safety team for the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series at the beginning of the season, the ASCS National Tour will also have its own safety crew on scene at every event.
Those who’ve raced with the ASCS in previous years will find familiarity with the team leading the safety efforts, as it will be headed by Billy Hurt, whose team has been with the ASCS Warrior Region for several years.
“The ASCS Fire and Rescue Team is excited for the opportunity to be a part of the National Tour,” Hurt said. “The national teams will have peace of mind knowing we will be there to assist and protect them at all of their events. This is just one of the good things World Racing Group is bringing to sprint car racing, and we can’t wait to see what other things improve with this tour.”
Hurt, who has been involved in the safety and rescue of sprint car drivers for over 22 years, has been in the fire service since 1982, serving first as a volunteer, and has been a career firefighter and EMT for 26 years in Columbia, Mo. Bringing his familiar crew on the road with him, they combine for over 70 years of fire service and training. His team is also an active part of the on-site safety/first responders during the Tulsa Shootout and Chili Bowl Nationals.
“The addition of the ASCS Fire and Rescue Team at all National events will be a tremendous asset for the American Sprint Car Series and World Racing Group going forward,” said Lonnie Wheatley, ASCS Series Director. “While ideally, we would hope to never have the need to put them into action, all teams competing at ASCS National events can rest assured that they are in the most capable hands if and when the Fire and Rescue Team’s extensive skills and experience are called upon. This is a significant step for the American Sprint Car Series in ensuring the safety of its competitors and an early indication of further positive developments for the Series.”
The National Tour of the American Sprint Car Series will begin its season at Super Bee Speedway in Chatham, La., on April 19-20.