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NASCAR Driver Chase Purdy Sits in Third Place in the K&N Pro Series East Series

20 sept 2017

Chase Purdy and his Number 17 car racing during the race at Dover International Speedway

Chase Purdy, a Sunoco Rookie of the Year contender, sits in third place in the K&N Pro East Series Standings. Purdy is still looking for his first career K&N Pro Series East win and has four runner-up finishes.

After a slow start to the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, rookie driver Chase Purdy has emerged as one of the top drivers in the series. He has four runner-up finishes in his rookie season, but is still looking for that elusive first win. With three races remaining in the 2017 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East schedule, he is running out of time.

In his 11 starts this year, Purdy sits in third place in the K&N Pro Series East standings with 406 points. His four top-5 finishes, all second places, go hand-in-hand with his six top-10 finishes. Purdy has been selected to be in the NASCAR NEXT class, a prestigious group of drivers hoping to one day be racing in the NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series.

Purdy enters the NASCAR NEXT class as the 2016 NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Rookie of the Year and is on the cusp of taking home the 2017 Sunoco Rookie of the Year award in the K&N Pro Series East.

Purdy won his first K&N Pro Series East '21 Means 21' Pole award at Memphis International Raceway in June and added three more poles in a row. He won the pole position at the races at Berlin Raceway in Michigan, Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park in Connecticut, and New Hampshire International Raceway.

One of his runner-up finishes came at Iowa Speedway in July. It was a race that combined the teams and drivers from the K&N Pro Series East and West and had a field of 34 cars.

“All day I felt like we didn't have enough speed, but during the final segment of the race we got our speed, picked off a few cars and finished second with five laps to go after a restart,” Purdy said about his second-place finish at Iowa. “That’s when I threw my marbles into a bag and we just came up short from that and just could not get it done.”

Purdy finished second in the K&N Pro Series East races at Berlin Raceway, South Boston Speedway, and New Hampshire International Raceway.

When asked if he could have won any of the races he finished second in, Purdy said, “I threw away South Boston myself and I really put that on my shoulders as something that slipped away from me in the end.

Chase Purdy and his crew discussing strategy before a race

“We have all the ingredients and made the milkshake, we just have not put the cherry on top, but I think we will get there by the end of the season,” Purdy said when asked if he believes his team is close to coming out with a win.

Purdy is sponsored by Bama Buggies and races for David Gilliland, father to Todd Gilliland, who races in the K&N Pro Series East and West. Todd Gilliland is the reigning K&N Pro Series West champion and leads the West Series standings after 11 races in 2017.

At 17 years old, Purdy is shaping up to be one the up-and-coming drivers in NASCAR.

“Just stay consistent and not focus too much on that stuff, and stay smart,” he said when asked about the Rookie of the Year Award.

Purdy did not expect to be third in the K&N Pro East Series Standings. He said he expected to be in the top 10 in the standings, though.

“I am third behind the series elite, Harrison (Burton) and Todd (Gilliland), and to be a rookie and sit in third place is pretty outstanding,” Purdy said

“It’s huge, several guys in the big leagues came through the K&N series which really puts you on the map. It prepares you for the big leagues and gives you the ability to drive some of the big cars that they use up there,” Purdy said on the sponsorship of K&N and how much it has helped his career.

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K&N Calendar Model Jacey Marie Works the Oscars in Hollywood

20 sept 2017

Jacey attended the Oscars, the biggest night in Hollywood, rubbing elbows with A-list celebrities

The Oscars is one of the most exclusive, star studded events in Hollywood, bedecked with beauty and glamour. Every glimpse is gorgeous from the high-end fashion to the glowing actresses strolling down the red carpet. K&N model, Jacey Marie, added another spark of beauty to this event; she worked in the VIP Oscar’s Gift Suite at the W Hollywood Hotel. With the bright lights and endless parade of celebrities, it’s no surprise Jacey listed this event as her favorite modeling memory.

On this night, Jacey met Melissa McCarthy, Colin Egglesfield, Kevin Nealon, Teri Polo, Cloris Leachman and Dermot Mulroney. She remembers the stars passing through the suite, recounting, “The atmosphere was rather uplifting and lively throughout the entire event.” Beautiful gowns and black tuxedos peppered the walkway; Jacey's attire was no exception. She describes her outfits: “For the 2 day VIP Oscar’s gifting suite which was held at the W Hollywood Hotel, I wore two sequined dresses. First day, I wore a brown dress with sheer sleeves and gold sequins all throughout the dress. The second day, I wore a one-shoulder nude dress with silver sequins all throughout the dress.” Besides meeting celebrities and getting glam, Jacey landed some other perks admitting, “I got a bunch of high-end gifts that were left over on the final day of the gifting suite as well as getting gifts during the event.”

In her youth, Jacey was selected to participate in the Snow Princess Pageant, in Aberdeen, SD

The Oscars was a magical night for Jacey. The modeling industry offers a lot of unique opportunities, but you can get burned in this business. Literally. When asked about the worst modeling memory, Jacey quickly quips, “Worst memory is when a company didn't provide shade or reasonable sunscreen causing me to get third degree burns on the job.” She went on to say, “The experience was for a small event outside in the sun next to water, without any shade for the girls working whatsoever. Unfortunately, I was out in the sun for anywhere between 8-10 hours, without any waterproof sunscreen.” Conditions can be cutthroat in the modeling world, but she was strong enough to shake it off and get the job done.

Whether baking in the sun or standing in a beautiful gown, Jacey shows a lot of poise. Growing up in Aberdeen, South Dakota, she learned these skills at a young age. She was hand selected to be in a beauty contest: a compliment to her style. Jacey reveals, “Where I grew up in Aberdeen, South Dakota, the Snow Princess Pageant girls would get picked to compete and have their images published in the newspaper. I found out I was chosen to compete when my family got the newspaper one morning and saw my image in the competition section.” This picture was proof of Jacey's beauty. Even as a child, she showed great potential. The pageant was a charming surprise—a glimpse into Jacey's future career in the industry.

Jacey is going on my second year of working with K&N

Jacey has modeled for various clients. Her first job was in the world of racing— “working a promo at the 31st Progressive International Motorcycle Show for Two Brother's Racing.” She has also modeled for DOLL Swimwear, Nintendo, Anheuser-Busch, Thinkthin, BEBE, Panache Bridal, fifty1fiftyracing, and of course K&N. Thankfully, she’s never been burned on K&N’s set. She shares, “It has been a joy to work with K&N Filters thus far, and I am going on my second year of working with them.” Her future plans also involve life on the big screen. She comments “As for acting, I am hoping to get into both T.V. and movies. I love acting overall, so whatever I can get my hands on, I will do it.” She would also like to be published in more magazines.

Because of the industry Jacey works in, her life is fast-paced, but this fits her personality. She admits, “I am a very adventurous person who loves to skydive, snowboard, go to the shooting range, drive fast, and even go hiking.” At the end of the day, Jacey Marie is an athletic, active model. She has held her own at the Oscars and excelled under tough conditions. With poise and grace, she is fit to succeed in Hollywood and the world over.

Follow Jacey Marie on Instagram to keep up with her latest adventures, @missjaceymarie

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K&N Gearing Up for the 2017-2018 Progressive International Motorcycle Shows

18 sept 2017

K&N display at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show

K&N will display the latest in filter and intake technology at the Progressive IMS

The traveling moto-extraganza known as the Progressive International Motorcycle Show (IMS) will commence with its first stop in Long Beach, California in November. From there, the IMS will make its way around the country with a total of 7 stops from coast to coast. As always, the show will feature exciting products, new motorcycle models, entertainment, and education.

“This year we are planning to deliver the most in-depth and immersive experience yet for our attendees,” said Tracy Harris, Senior Vice President of the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows. “We will continue to support the powersports industry through our events while cultivating a place for motorcycle enthusiasts to gather and share a one-of-a-kind motorcycling lifestyle experience.”

Test ride motorcycles at the Long Beach, California Progressive International Motorcycle Show

Major motorcycle manufacturers will have new models lined up for test rides

Once again, K&N will be a major sponsor and a ubiquitous presence at the premier national motorcycle event. K&N will display an exciting array of motorcycle performance and filtration products on the event floor of every stop of the IMS. Additionally, K&N will return as a major sponsor of the J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show.

New Motorcycles and Products

Every motorcycle manufacturer knows the impact that IMS has on exposure to the industry’s customer base. New motorcycle models from American, European, and Asian marquees will be displayed on the event floor and many will be available for organized test rides.

BMW, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Can-Am, Ducati, Indian, KTM, Royal Enfield, Slingshot, Triumph, and Victory, are some of the companies that will be present at the IMS. There is not a better event for someone in the market for a new ride.

Vintage bikes at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show

Vintage bikes and custom builds will grace the floor of each stop of the IMS

For test rides, the manufacturers require a motorcycle endorsement, helmet, and appropriate riding clothing. So come prepared and sample the new 2018 models.

Parts and accessories companies will also be unveiling new and exciting products. Apparel and safety gear can be tried on, maintenance items can be studied, and performance products can be compared. Of course, the folks at the K&N display can show you what’s new in performance intakes and high-flow filtration.

Bike Shows and Displays

The J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show is the signature custom motorcycle event at the IMS. The biggest names in the elite level of custom bike building will compete for cash and product prizes in several classes and categories. The major classes are Freestyle, Modified Harley, Modified Retro, and Custom Street.

Once again, K&N will sponsor portions of the major classes and will be the title sponsor of a special category. The prestigious K&N category competition proved to be popular with spectators and builders alike in the last IMS season.

K&N Honda at the J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show

K&N will again sponsor the J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show

In addition to the custom bike shows, the IMS features one of the largest classic and vintage motorcycle displays in the world. Attendees can study the motorcycles that defined and changed the sport.

Entertainment and Education

In most cities, the IMS will offer up stunt and aerial shows by Metal Mulisha Fitz Army, and every stop will include some form of high-octane entertainment. There will also be music on the Progressive Main Stage, and various visual artists will display their talents throughout the venue as well.

Copious opportunities for education will be offered up at each stop of the IMS. That same Progressive Main Stage that will feature musicians, will be the podium for a wide range of special speakers and presenters on motorcycle safety, riding technique, adventure travel, and other information relevant to motorcyclists.

Check the schedule below for a show in a city near you, and stop and say hello to the nice people manning the K&N display.

A Motorcycle artist at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show

Motorcycle artists will show their talents at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show

The Schedule

Long Beach, California: November 17-19, 2017, Long Beach Convention Center

New York, New York: December 1-3, 2017, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

Minneapolis, Minnesota: December 8-10, 2017, Minneapolis Convention Center

Cleveland, Ohio: January 26-28, 2018, I-X Center

Dallas, Texas: February 2-4, 2018, Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center

Chicago, Illinois: February 9-11, 2018, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

Washington D.C.: February 23-25, 2018, Walter E. Washington Convention Center

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Meet the World’s Most Expensive 2017 Ford Raptor by Deberti Designs

18 sept 2017

Brad Deberti posing with his latest design: The EAA F-22 Ford Raptor

Each year, the Experimental Aircraft Association hosts an event called Gathering of the Eagles at their annual AirVenture show in Wisconsin. The purpose is to raise money for the EAA’s numerous youth aviation initiatives. Like the Young Eagles program, and the Sport Pilot Academy, which trains qualified young people to get their sport pilot license. For the last decade, the Ford Motor Company has donated custom vehicles to be sold during their charity auction. Nearly all of these special Fords have been based on a Mustang GT or a Shelby Mustang variant. Except for this year. Attendees of the 2017 EAA AirVenture event had a chance to bid on a customized EAA 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor, which had been designed as a tribute to the Lockheed F-22 Raptor fighter plane. It was a one-of-a-kind truck, that has an equally unique backstory. And oh yeah, it sold for a record-setting price of $300,000!

The award winning 2016 Ford Raptor PreRunner by Deberti Designs from SEMA 2016

At the 2016 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, a young man named Brad Deberti won the 2016 SEMA Young Gun Award, the 2016 Ford Motor Company Design Award, and a 2016 SEMA Top 10 Award in the Battle of the Builders competition. As a result of all this attention, Ford asked Brad to come up with a design for another custom Raptor. So he and his father Doug put together a rendering and sent it to the Ford design team. They sent back a paint scheme, and ultimately approved everything that the Deberti’s had suggested.

It might look stock, but the one-off EAA 2017 Ford Raptor F-22 is a true show truck

They couldn't go overly crazy with the design because it was intended to have a more broad appeal for potential buyers at the auction. So they did a lot of tasteful enhancements to the factory design. For example, they took the factory geometry and plugged it into a CAD program. This allowed Deberti Designs to stretch out the factory fender flares 1 1/2 inches, and widen the track by 1 1/2 inches. Doug Deberti explained that they did this so, “The tires don't kick stuff up all over the paint.” Next, Brad machined molds for the bodywork then hand laid the carbon fiber. Doug continued: “They're all one-off parts (speaking of the carbon fiber body panels). If someone wanted a set of those, it would be very expensive to do. You know, we’ll never sell another set of those, because they cost so much money.”

This custom titanium grill literally cost more than a 2017 Ford Raptor

The grille and tailgate of the F-22 Ford Raptor are made out of layered titanium, and both of those parts literally cost more than the truck itself (FYI: a 2017 Ford Raptor starts at $50k). Since titanium too hard to drill through, Brad designed the grille in a 3D CAD file, then had it printed out of titanium (which took around 80 hours to do). This process is known as Direct Metal Laser Sintering and requires a special machine that uses a powerful optic laser to basically melt titanium powder into the desired form. Doug explained, “It’s a neat process, but it's very expensive to do. Originally, Brad had planned to give the grille a natural titanium finish. But the Ford Design team decided they wanted a more monochromatic finish. That way the grille blended with the rest of the truck’s color scheme.” So they painted the grille to match the rest of the truck, then installed amber LED lights behind layered plexiglass, to make it look like the F-22's afterburners were glowing. As you can see in the pictures, the look they achieved is incredible.

Notice the glowing afterburners in the titanium F-22 Raptor grill

Behind that amazingly expensive grille is a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 that has been tuned to produce a whopping 545 horsepower and 660 lb-ft (which is 95-hp and 150 lb-ft more than stock). This extra Raptor bite came courtesy of Whipple, which created a computer system that basically tricks the ECU into thinking it needs to make the turbos deliver more boost. The Deberti F-22 Ford Raptor also gets a much bigger Whipple Mega Cooler intercooler, and a special intake tube connected to a high-flow K&N air filter. The end result is a truck that performs as good as it looks.

The custom titanium tailgate on the F-22 Ford Raptor by Deberti Designs

“We have fun, it’s a neat process.” Doug Deberti said of building this custom 2017 Ford Raptor. “The reason why everything is so expensive on that truck is because somebody is going to pay a lot of money for it. It's a one-off. We would never build another one of those trucks. Everything that Brad and I build is a one-of-a-kind, that's why they're so expensive. There's a lot of people out there that like having something that nobody else has. And this EAA F-22 Raptor is a perfect example. There's probably $160,000 worth of parts in it alone. It’s a very unique truck.” Apparently, the bidders agreed, and the price shot up to $300,000 very quickly, which is a record price for a Ford Raptor.

We at K&N congratulate Brad & Doug Deberti on their high-flying Raptor’s success!

With a hammer price of $300,000, this is the most expensive 2017 Ford Raptor ever sold

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Legendary NASCAR Driver Ted Christopher Dies in Plane Crash

18 sept 2017

NASCAR, Ted Christopher, K&N Pro Series, Stafford Motor Speedway, Thomspon Speedway Motorsports

NASCAR driver Ted Christopher from Connecticut died in a plane crash on September 16th

Thoughts and prayers from race tracks, drivers, and fans all over the country are pouring in for Ted Christopher, a NASCAR driver from Connecticut who died in a plane crash on Saturday, September 16th. He was 59.

Tweets and messages from Jimmie Johnson to Kyle Petty have been sent to offer condolences to Christopher and his family.

“We are all saddened to learn of the tragic plane crash this afternoon that claimed the lives of NASCAR driver Ted Christopher and the aircraft’s pilot,” NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France said in a prepared statement on Saturday.

“As a championship driver on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and New England short tracks, Christopher was a throwback to NASCAR’s roots. He was a tough racer’s racer, and his hard driving style and candid personality endeared him to short track fans throughout the country. He will be missed throughout the racing community, in the garage, and, especially, in the hearts of his many fans. NASCAR has his family and friends in its thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Christopher is one of two NASCAR drivers to win a Whelen All-American series National Title and a Touring Series Championship. He won the NASCAR Whelen All-American short-track championship in 2001 and won the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour championship in 2008. No driver has won more races than Christopher at two storied tracks in New England, Stafford Motor Speedway and Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park, regular stops on the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East.

Christopher was one of two people on board a plane that crashed in Guilford, Connecticut, on Saturday afternoon. Both died in the crash. The other person on board, the pilot, was not identified.

“So very sad to hear of Ted Christopher's passing...Greatness passes into Legend #RIP,” Petty posted on Twitter on Sunday.

“Ted Christopher was such a great guy and wheel man. Thinking of his family and friends. #TC13,” Johnson posted on Twitter on Sunday.

Ted Christopher won 12 NASCAR K&N Pro Series races in his long and storied career

Christopher won 131 races and nine SK Modified Division championships at Stafford Motor Speedway. He won 99 races at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park.

He won 10 World Series of Asphalt Racing races at New Smyrna Speedway, in Florida, another regular stop on the K&N Pro Series East. He won tour-type Modified titles from 1998-2001, 2003, 2005, and 2009-2011. He also won the SK Modified Division title in 1991 and five Richie Evans Memorial races at New Smyrna Speedway, a track record.

He was scheduled to drive the No. 82 Horton Avenue Materials Chevrolet at New York’s Riverhead Raceway on Saturday. The No. 82 race team drove a ceremonial pace lap before a moment of silence before the races.

Christopher made six starts in the NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series, 21 starts in the Xfinity Series, and two in the Camping World Truck Series. He won 12 races in 94 career K&N Pro Series starts and 42 races in 49 years of racing in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. He won six races in 19 starts in the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour and made two starts in the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona sports car race.

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