With schools across the country opening their doors to the new year, Security Benefit is proudly returning to the track with its familiar Thank A Teacher Today primary colors on the Phoenix Racing Chevrolet. Landon Cassill will pilot the No. 51 Thank a Teacher Today Impala for the Wonderful Pistachios 400 at the action-packed .75-mile Richmond (Va.) International Raceway (RIR).
Cassill has two previous NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) starts at RIR. In NASCAR Nationwide Series competition, Cassill has made four starts. His best finish was 12th, which he accomplished in 2008 driving for JR Motorsports.
In his three NSCS starts at short tracks this season, Cassill’s best result came at Martinsville (Va.) Speedway when he took the checkered flag in 26th place.
Phoenix Racing has 12 NSCS starts at Richmond. Their best finish came with Mike Wallace behind the wheel in 2004. He captured seventh place after starting in the 41st position.
Cassill comments on racing at Richmond:
“This is a really big week for the Thank A Teacher Today program. After Labor Day weekend, most of our schools are back in session and beginning their school year. It’s important for us to recognize all of the hard work and dedication that they’ll be pouring into their students over the next 10 months. I hope that our teachers enjoyed their well-deserved summer break. It’s back to school now, and I want to make sure we remember to support their efforts.
“This is a big race, the last one before we set our playoffs. We may not be in a position to race for a playoff spot, but we can get this car and program a lot of exposure if we run up front. Hopefully we can play spoiler and get this program a lot of coverage.
“I like going to Richmond, too. The track is called ‘racing perfection’ and it would be hard to argue that. It’s got short track action, but it’s fast like a superspeedway. It really has the best of both worlds.
“With it being the last chance for everyone to make the Chase, you’re going to see a crazy race. Drivers will be pushing the envelope and taking chances. I have a feeling it will be a fireworks show. It’s going to be important for me to be alert and ready for anything. Our team plans to race smart and make sure we’re there at the end. If we do that, we’ll get a good finish with our Thank A Teacher Today Chevrolet”
Phoenix Racing PR
- Talladega Superspeedway Weekend Schedule - April 14, 2024
- Odd Tony Stewart Talladega Post Race Q&A - May 7, 2012
- Team Chevy Post Talladega Race Rundown - May 7, 2012