By SEMA News Editors

Behind-the-Scenes Access to Indy's Month of May: Part 1

SEMA and PRI Associate Editor A.J. Hecht attended various racing events in and around Indianapolis throughout the month in the lead-up to the 108th Indianapolis 500. Read some of his thoughts and observations below:

Monday, May 20 – Indianapolis 500 Practice

The field now set, focus turned back to race setups, and with just two, two-hour practice sessions left on the calendar, the 33 drivers and teams had little time to celebrate the successes of qualifying weekend and even less time to waste.

Every team made it on track during the penultimate session, logging a total of 2,655 laps, the most of any session so far, according to INDYCAR.

From the grandstands, the practice session looked more like a race than a testing opportunity. Long lines of cars darted down the frontstretch, weaving and drafting like there were 10 laps to go in the whole thing. If I didn't know any better, I'd think I was watching a race.

Part of what makes the 500 such a special, iconic event is the buildup, and these practice sessions are a big part of it. There aren't many races that provide anywhere near the amount of track time available to the competitors, but even with all the opportunity, it feels as if every driver, every team is pressed to make the most of each second.

While that's the case for everyone, it's doubly important for the rookies, who got their first taste of live pitstops at IMS during the Monday session. For those unfamiliar, cars dive directly onto pit lane from the exit of Turn Four during the race, a move that isn't allowed until the penultimate practice of the month. Before Monday, drivers had to enter the pits after first taking the cool-down lane, which starts on the entry to Turn Three. It's no easy task slowing the car from 220-plus mph down to 60 mph, the pit-lane speed limit, but nailing the timing can give you an advantage during the race. Miss the mark, however, and it could be a day-ender. Plenty of drivers have thrown away solid results, even race wins, on pit lane. Most drivers, even the veterans, made sure to spend some of their time perfecting their in-lap procedures. In less than a week, they'd find out if it would pay off.

Wednesday, May 22 – USAC National Sprint Car Circle City Salute

I am, admittedly, a novice when it comes to dirt track racing. Until this event, I'd never been to a dirt race, and boy, was I missing out.

Wednesday was the first of a two-night stop for the USAC Amsoil National Sprint Car series at Circle City Raceway, a quarter-mile oval on the southeast side of Indianapolis, and with late models on the undercard, I was thrown head-first into the dirt world.

At Circle City, you're very close to the action, almost on top of it, and it's easy to see what kind of car control is required to set yourself apart. Between the sound of the modulating throttle and the rapidly dancing front wheels, it's impossible to miss how much the driver is—or isn't—in control, adjusting on the fly in search of grip, the traction to get everything out of the rumbling 410ci V8. It's noticeable during hot laps, readily apparent in qualifying, and completely obvious once the heat races get going.

There was some recent online discourse about the best drivers in the world, that it couldn't be anyone "who only turns left." Those people have clearly never seen Brady Bacon, Logan Seavey, Justin Grant and the rest of their circle track competitors wheel one of these 800hp beasts around a tight, dusty oval for 30 laps.

There are exceptionally talented drivers at all levels, and in all disciplines, but it's no mystery as to why you'd find a lot of them in one of the premier sprint car circuits in the country. While great for the series and fans, it makes it difficult for some part-timers to jump in and be competitive. But that doesn't stop them from participating. One such driver entered for the two-night event, Jake Simmons, is a local, native to nearby New Palestine, Indiana, and was hopping back in the car after an extended absence from racing. Having run some USAC Sprint Car and Silver Crown races back in the day, Simmons was out supporting his local track and trying his hand at running alongside Bacon, Seavey, and the rest of the full-timers, with help from his one-man crew: his dad, Tim.

While the results weren't quite what he was hoping for, he was still happy to shake off a little rust and do his part to ensure Circle City Raceway is around for the long haul. Drivers like Simmons highlight the importance of supporting your local race track and their role in a thriving motorsports industry. That fact wasn't lost on him.

"I live 10 minutes down the road. I want this track to succeed," Simmons said. "It's critical to the local scene, and we just want to support a local track, the local people. It's important to me. I want to be able to come out here and race when I want to race."

It also affords him a very unique opportunity: to race in Indianapolis, in May, on the week of the Indianapolis 500.

"It's awesome. I love this week. You have Terre Haute, you have two nights [at Circle City Raceway], the Little 500, it's huge," Simmons said. "We're not running the 500, but it's still really cool to be able to run in a car in Indiana, let alone Indianapolis, during the month of May, the week of the 500. It's awesome."

Ultimately, Bacon came out on top and found victory lane, a seemingly popular result among the sizeable crowd. Consumed by a cloud of dust, the Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, native successfully navigated the 24-car field in the night's feature race, surviving multiple late restarts to take what I later learned was his first win of the season.

It was an enlightening experience for me. I never doubted that these drivers were skilled, that it takes as much talent to wheel a sprint car as it does anything else. But to see it up close, to see the artistry and precision required to be the best, gave me a new-found appreciation for the drivers grinding it out, week after week, night after night, on the local short tracks.

Yes, it was my first dirt-track experience, but it certainly won't be my last.

Thursday, May 23 – HMD Motorsports Shop Grand Opening

HMD Motorsports hasn't been around long, but if their new Brownsburg, Indiana, race shop is any indication, they're here to stay.

The INDY NXT team, helmed by trucking executive Henry Malukas, celebrated the long-awaited opening of its new home with an open house, signaling its intention to become a stalwart in the INDYCAR ladder and the top levels of North American motorsports.

During the open house, friends, family, and the general public filled the cavernous facility, an almost 80,000 sq. ft. building that was, in another life, a Marsh grocery store. Visitors got a chance to see the 12 bays and numerous Dallara IL-15 chassis being prepped for the next INDY NXT race, a full fleet of transporters, a sub-assembly shop, a fabrication shop, and a lot more.

A.J. Smith, HMD Motorsports team manager, originally alerted Malukas to the building's availability and was instrumental in the building's design.

"I saw the sign the day it went up and the next day we were in here with a broker," he said. Malukas then gave the go-ahead to make an offer and it snowballed from there.

"I brought my engineering team in here and we walked around and drew it out on a napkin," Smith said. "Two years in the making, but here we are."

Although fierce rivals on the track, HMD contracted Abel Construction, the company behind the Abel Motorsports INDY NXT effort, to build out the facility, which also houses a full gym, graphics department, extensive office space for more than 20 engineers, and just about everything else a 10-car effort could need. 

It's so big that, as things currently stand, there are two empty bays and room for two more. "In case we ever want to go big-car racing," Smith said. 

According to Team President Mike Maurini, it might not be long until they make use of that extra space, and the new shop leaves the team fully prepared for the pursuit of those lofty goals.

"Henry has aspirations to be in INDYCAR, but first we had to get a building done. We couldn't do what we wanted to do where we were, so this is the first step," Maurini said. "INDYCAR is not the sole path we can go, but we want to be involved in the top tier of motorsports in North America, whether it's sports cars or INDYCAR."

The team is also seeing immediate returns on the investment by way of personnel.

"We've met with several drivers that want to race with us next year," he said. "We brought them to the building, and it sold the whole deal."

Thursday, May 23 – Dallara and Purdue Partnership Announcement

There's little doubt that Dallara has had a tremendous impact on not only the Indianapolis 500, but the motorsports industry at large. In addition to its 20-plus wins at IMS, it has served as a supplier and constructor for numerous series around the world.

This year, it revealed a new effort that, if all goes to plan, will make a new, long-term impact on the industry. Announced just a few days before the race, Dallara has forged a new partnership with Purdue University, one of Indiana's flagship universities and the home of an extensive motorsports engineering program.

Since 2012, Dallara has maintained a permanent presence in Indianapolis, and as the new partnership indicates, one that will continue for the foreseeable future. Beginning this year, Purdue will take up residence in a portion of Dallara's Speedway, Indiana, INDYCAR Factory, making the facility the home for its Ray Ewry Sports Engineering Center.

The announcement, which will establish a direct connection between the university's engineering programs and the racing industry, coincided with the launch of another partnership—with AK Esports—expanding Dallara's place in the sim racing world.

It's encouraging, given the ever-changing world we live in, that the motorsports industry is doing its part to ensure its future, finding new ways to draw people in and showing that a career in racing is attainable, and will be for a long time to come.

Thursday, May 23 – Racing Memorabilia Show

Like many involved in the racing industry, I'm a fiend for memorabilia. Programs, pins, team shirts, diecast, you name it, I probably have at least one. Every year on our trip to IMS, my dad would buy me a die-cast car, sparking a life-long obsession. I still have all of them, although a few are a little worse for wear.

As you could probably guess, the Racing Memorabilia Show, now held at an Embassy Suites in Plainfield, is always circled on my calendar.

Once held at IMS on the Saturday before the 500, the show has taken on a life of its own since organizers Kendall Wildman and Craig Huffman took over in 2021. Just three years ago, when the pair took ownership of the show, it was a two-day affair and had only 80 vendor tables.

Today, the marketplace boasts around 180 vendors, spans three days of potential shopping for collectors and is billed as the "World's Largest Racing Memorabilia Show." Although I can't verify that it's the "World's Largest," it makes a good argument.

Wildman and Huffman work year-round to plan the show, securing vendors and floorspace, coordinating guest appearances from drivers and industry legends, and gathering items for a silent auction, which benefits IndyCar Ministry, USAC RACEAID, and the American Legion. They've also formed partnerships to bring in show cars and new sponsors and hit the pavement promoting the show via word-of-mouth.

"We've put a lot of effort into building these relationships," Wildman said. "We go to multiple races every year to talk to drivers and engage with fans."

Like many others in this industry, the effort comes from a place of passion, Wildman said, who is an avid collector himself.

"It started in 2003 with a Bronze Badge," he told me, referring to the pin that grants a spectator access to Gasoline Alley, the famed IMS garage area. Then it grew to autographs and race programs.

In the following 20 years, his collection has expanded well beyond that first Bronze Badge, and now includes race suits, die-cast cars, and even a few rare items, like a pair of Dan Wheldon's race-worn gloves and an original brick from the early days of IMS.

But even for seasoned collectors like Wildman, there's still plenty to sort through at the show. And it's not just INDYCAR memorabilia. You'll find sprint and midget car die-casts, NASCAR posters, drag racing crew shirts, history books, antique tickets--you name it, you'll find it.

I did my best to keep myself in check, but still walked away with something small: a 1/64-scale Jaques Lazier Indy car. It might not have any significance to many of you, but it's the car that won the first race I ever attended, the 2001 Delphi Indy 300 at Chicagoland Speedway.

It may not seem like much, but that little car is a way for me to keep in touch with that day, a fond reminder of where this whole thing started.

Friday, May 24 – Hoosier Hundred and Carb Night Classic at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

I opted not to attend the Carb Day festivities at IMS on Friday--the practice, pit stop competition, and concert that kicks-off Indy 500 weekend--and instead pay a visit to the Hoosier Hundred and Carb Night Classic at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park (IRP).

Unfortunately, the weather had other ideas, as rain washed out the evening's four-race slate. I sat in the press box for about an hour watching IRP's small but mighty crew work to dry the pavement, only for another round of showers to undo all of their hard work.

Saturday, May 25 – Hoosier Hundred and Carb "Night" Classic at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

There are few things I'll set an alarm for on a Saturday morning, but racing is one of them.

Apparently, I'm not alone, because just like most of the month, Indianapolis showed up at the track bright and early, eager to see a modern take on a classic race: the USAC Silver Crown Hoosier Hundred. Forced from its historic home on the one-mile dirt oval at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, the race has moved to the pavement at IRP to carry on its 70-plus-year legacy.

It was encouraging to see such an impressive turnout for not only a delayed event but one that shines a spotlight on the two lowest rungs on the INDYCAR ladder. In addition to the headlining Silver Crown event, the docket also included some midget car action—which drew some participation from the Silver Crown field—and two races for the youngsters in the USF Pro 2000 and USF 2000 championships.

All four groups put on a show in their own way. The midget race was fast-paced and on the limit, with Jake Trainer coming out on top. During the Hoosier Hundred, Kody Swanson dominated from pole, clearing second-place Logan Seavey by 17.8 seconds. C.J. Leary, who borrowed a ride from owner/driver Bryan Gossel after engine troubles, kept things exciting with a charge from deep in the field, ultimately finishing third after lining up 22nd on the grid. He was the biggest mover at the track in two decades, according to USAC.

In the 75-lap USF 2000 race, local driver Tanner DeFabis notched his first career win, much to the excitement of the crowd and his Jay Howard Driver Development team. And to finish the morning, Braden Eves—who set the track record during Friday afternoon qualifying—fought off a stiff challenge from Jace Denmark to win the Freedom 90, the lone oval event on the USF Pro 2000 calendar.

It was stellar and compelling racing from start to finish, and as much as I love the Indy 500, will always insist upon its inclusion among the greatest sporting events in the world, it's not the only race worth watching. The Hoosier Hundred and Carb Night Classic might not have a $17-million purse or a crowd 350,000 strong, but these drivers could fool you.

If you just watch, see the way they drive, thrash at the wheel and throw their cars into the corner, use every inch of race track, fighting two- or three-wide for position, you might think there was a life-changing payday or racing immortality waiting at the finish line. There's usually not. That's what makes the Indianapolis 500 so unique, so sought after, so revered. But these races mean everything to the drivers competing in them, and that's worth just as much.

Sunday, May 26 – The 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500

After a month of buildup, the city feels like it's ready to explode. There's a communal sense of anticipation that's hard to explain to those who have never experienced it. But once you're aware of it, once you're a part of it, it's hard to escape. Waking up on race day just feels different. 

Shortly after dawn, when the cannon sounds at 6 a.m. to open the track, the whole city starts to hum. It's an actual, audible hum. There are helicopters and single-prop planes buzzing overhead, endless lines of cars rolling into parking lots, whistles from traffic cops, music pumping from tailgates, the Speedway High Sparkplugs band marching toward the track. The world comes alive in a totally unique way, and every year, every single time I go back, it feels special. 

No matter what, I always get goosebumps. When the pre-race traditions get going. When the Speedway falls silent for "Taps." When Jim Cornelison belts out the last notes of "Back Home Again in Indiana." When 33 cars fire up all at once. When the field charges into Turn One three abreast. When there's a race off pit road. When a driver makes a move on the outside. When the crowd roars for a late-race pass. When the white flag waves. When the leaders make the turn for home. When they charge down the front stretch for the final time.

I always, always get goosebumps. There is truly nothing else like it in the world. 

I brought my now-fiancée to the race for the first time in 2018. She was immediately hooked. This year, we brought her family. Many people can attest to this, but once you bring someone to the 500, they are almost always a fan for life, can't wait to come back. 

Later that night, after we survived the lengthy rain delay, held out to watch Josef Newgarden make a last lap pass for the win, and hiked back to the car just to sit in hours of traffic, they asked how to get tickets for next year.

One thing I confirmed this month is that the racing world is alive and thriving, but I also discovered that it relies on one thing more than anything else. More than fuel, more than tires, more than spare parts or local race tracks, this industry relies on passion.

It was the one thing that connected every race I attended, every hand I shook and every story I heard. It was the same for everyone, whether it was Brady Bacon or Jake Simmons, Rinus Veekay or Nolan Siegel. 

For many, racing is a way of life. It's not just a job or a hobby; it's a calling. You've heard that before, I'm sure, maybe even said it yourself. But to be totally immersed in this world, to see so many different sides of it in such a short time, makes clear not only how widespread that sentiment is but how powerful it is, too.

As the clock strikes "June" and I reset the countdown to my favorite month of the year, I want to first pause and say thank you to everyone at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, INDYCAR, Firestone, USAC, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, the Racing Memorabilia Show, Dallara, Circle City Raceway, HMD Motorsports, and, of course, PRI, who allowed me to be a very, very small part of the Month of May. 

I'll end with this: 

On Pole Day, while sitting up in Stand E with my fiancée and parents, my dad turned to me and asked, "When you were here as a kid, did you ever think you'd be here with a media credential and an office down the street from the track?"

No, Dad. Not in my wildest dreams. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has opened nominations for its prestigious SEMA Industry Awards at www.sema.org/awards.

Comprised of Person of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Channel Partner of the Year, Gen-III Innovator of the Year and Content Creator of the Year, the awards honor leading companies and individuals who have made significant contributions to the specialty-equipment industry over the past year. Nominations close July 12.

Repairify's Jon Delgado, left, was the recipient of the 2023 Gen-III Innovator of the Year award.

"SEMA Industry Awards are a testament to those who have enhanced the industry at remarkable levels through their ingenuity, service or outstanding business practices," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Chris Standifer. "The nomination process is crucial as it helps us identify and recognize those who are pushing new boundaries in the automotive world." 

For award consideration, honorees must have exhibited professionalism, service, integrity and ethics that propelled the industry forward. In 2023, Jon Delgado of Repairify was awarded Gen-III Innovator of the Year for leading the engineering of the patented asTech Rules Engine, which uses empirical data to present users with the most accurate and cost-effective diagnostic scan option specific to a given vehicle.

"Winning Gen-III Innovator of the Year validated my years of hard work and dedication to this industry," said Delgado. "It felt like a milestone that not only celebrated my past achievements but also inspired me to aim higher and push the boundaries of innovation going forward." Delgado said he was inspired by rapid advancements in technology and described winning the award as a "truly transformative experience."

For other past SEMA Industry Award honorees, such as 2023 Channel Partner of the Year winner Summit Racing Equipment, the recognition highlights the importance of industry partnerships, a factor that is considered during the award selection process. "Our team works hard to provide world-class service to our customers and business partners alike," said Summit Racing Equipment President and CEO Scott J. Peterson. "Not because they are trying to gain recognition or prove anything, but because they believe in and help drive our vision. They truly care, and their people-first attitude shows up in everyday actions and conversations."  

Nominations are now open for:  

• Channel Partner of the Year: Honors a sales channel partner for its outstanding service to the sales, distribution, retail, and/or e-commerce channel(s) of the industry. This includes maintaining proper inventories to service its respective channel and exceeding standards in providing suppliers with input and regular communication to help their products and programs succeed. 
• Content Creator of the Year: Honors a content creator for their outstanding contributions to the automotive culture and for creating a positive impact with automotive enthusiasts.
• Gen-III Innovator of the Year: Honors a young, entrepreneurial individual, 40 years old or younger, who is creating innovative breakthroughs within the area(s) of industry opportunities, advancement, best business practices, technology, and/or trends. 
• Manufacturer of the Year: Honors a manufacturing company for its outstanding contributions and innovations.  
• Person of the Year: Established to honor a person for their outstanding contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment market.  

The SEMA Industry Awards will be presented during SEMA Show week, November 5-8, 2024. The Kick-Off Breakfast, held on Tuesday, November 5, will award both Channel Partner of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year. On Thursday, November 7, the SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet will recognize Gen-III Innovator of the Year, Person of the Year and Content Creator of the Year. Entries for Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year--a SEMA Industry Award that recognizes exceptional quality of engineering on a vehicle build--will open in September. Learn more at www.sema.org/awards.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) has launched "Hammer Down: The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Podcast," an inside look into the world and history of car culture. Hosted by Kevin Oeste, creative director at V8TV Productions, "Hammer Down" includes interviews with industry personalities in the hot-rod and auto-restoration realms sharing their unique experiences, stories and industry advice. 

"Our goal is to offer a resource where enthusiasts can access useful and entertaining hot-rod industry insights," said HRIA Chair and SEMA Board Member Tim McCarthy. "While 'Hammer Down' will focus mostly on the hot-rod industry, the episodes are geared towards enthusiasts and gearheads of all kinds. We will tell stories of the past and the present, sharing knowledge that can benefit one's personal and professional growth."   

As a SEMA council, HRIA's primary objectives are to ensure the prosperity of the hot-rod industry and increase awareness of the market. The podcast expands this mission, sharing the passion and innovation that exists within the industry. 

The first episode is now live and features guests Tim McCarthy, owner of HushMat and ZyCoat; Jerry Slover, owner of Pete and Jake's; and Bill Ganahl, owner of South City Customs.

Topics include: 

• Insight into the mission of the SEMA HRIA, including its impact on hot-rod businesses and the industry.    
• Valuable tips from hot-rod business owners, helping listeners navigate the ever-evolving industry landscape.
• Stories behind legendary cars that left an indelible mark on the industry, like the iconic California Kid.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with professionals who are knowledgeable and passionate about topics that are important to the automotive industry," added McCarthy. "We invite everyone to join us for what promises to be an exciting ride."  

Subscribe to "Hammer Down: The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Podcast" on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Additional episodes will be released throughout the year. 

By SEMA News Editors

Registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is now open at semashow.com/register. Set for November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the 2024 SEMA Show will (once again!) reveal the future of the aftermarket as attendees connect with thousands of leading manufacturers showcasing the latest products, trends and technology in the industry.

Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of travel discounts (more details here) and Show badge discounts. Registration is only $40 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

The SEMA Show offers an attendee experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet. Attending is a no-brainer for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, media members, influencers and related industry members, but the following are seven reasons why you need to secure their registration (available online here) for this year's SEMA Show:

• Exhibitors: Discover the latest product and vehicle trends with approximately 2,400 brands across dozens of product categories: Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace; Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment; Global Tire Expo (tires) and Wheels & Wheel Accessories; and First-Time and Featured Exhibitors.
• New Product Showcase: Visit the New Products Showcase to discover thousands of the latest exhibitor products displayed in one location of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Use the SEMA Show mobile app's "Product Scanner" feature to scan and download product photos and exhibitor information that will remain on your app long after the SEMA Show has ended.
• Education: SEMA Show Education is the single most important week of the year to power a professional development plan for your business and career. Through sessions and unique, immersive programs exploring the industry's most significant challenges and offering immediate takeaways, there is something for every automotive professional.
• Networking: The SEMA Show is where connections are built. Network with exhibitors, industry leaders and VIPs/celebrities from more than 140 countries and regions. Use the Show's mobile app to see lists of all the events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including day, time and location. In addition, this year's program includes SEMA Council & Networks receptions, happy hours and meetings, all designed to help you advance your business and grow your network. You'll also meet face-to-face with others in the industry and build meaningful relationships that will lead to real results and quality connections.
• Show Features: SEMA Show is teeming with the latest innovations and trends, showcased in several dedicated areas like the SEMA Battle of the Builders; the SEMA FutureTech Studio; the outdoors Optima Village; feature vehicle displays; SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions and Product Development; the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage; the Overland Experience; and the SEMA Show Art Walk.
• Show Events: Unique events and activations such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the Industry Banquet and vehicle demonstrations will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.
• And much more: Of course, attending the SEMA Show in the Las Vegas Convention Center is the best way to boost an automotive professional's business and career path, but be sure to make the most of your time in Vegas with ancillary events like after-hours networking and the second annual SEMA Fest, a celebration of music, motorsports and car culture. Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not provide access to the concerts at SEMA Fest. Visit SEMAFest.com to stay up-to-date and discover when tickets will be available.

Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. Inventory is selling quickly; secure your hotels today!

For more information about the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The industry is invited to join SEMA as it celebrates the newest members of its prestigious Hall of Fame during the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala on Friday, July 19, in Anaheim, California.

The SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala is a long-established tradition where individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry are honored and celebrated. Since 1976, this event has served as a formal gathering where new SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced, incoming Board of Directors are recognized and outgoing Directors are honored.

(Left to right) Chris Kersting, the late Jack Priegel, Les Rudd and Jon Wyly will be celebrated as the 2024 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees during the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala on Friday, July 19, in Anaheim.

This year, four distinguished individuals will be celebrated as they join the SEMA Hall of Fame: Chris Kersting, Jack Priegel, Les Rudd and Jon Wyly.  

"The automotive specialty-equipment industry, and SEMA as a whole, owes a lot of its success to the tireless contributions of our newest Hall of Fame members," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Whether it was helping to build up companies or providing services that were once a gap in the industry, their legacies have left a mark that will enrich our industry for generations to come."

Secure Tickets to the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala.

Learn more about the 2024 Hall of Fame inductees below:

Chris Kersting 

As SEMA president and CEO from 2002 until his retirement in 2022, Kersting led the organization through two decades of significant growth. During his tenure, he grew the globally recognized SEMA Show and bolstered the success of 6,000-plus SEMA member companies through innovative programs and services, including the SEMA Data Co-op (now SEMA Data), SEMA Garage & Emissions Lab, SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC), SEMA Ignited, SEMA Garage Detroit, and acquisition of the Performance Racing Industry (PRI). He also led the Association through times of difficult challenges, such as the 2008 recession and COVID pandemic.

Prior to his CEO role, Kersting led SEMA's Washington, D.C., office as vice president of government affairs, where he urged lawmakers to pass bills that protected the interests of SEMA member companies and challenged government regulation to maintain innovation and growth in the aftermarket industry. Association membership, approximately 2,400 when Kersting started, grew steadily during his tenure and topped more than 6,400 member companies at his tenure's end--a period of rapid growth for both the association and the industry.

"I feel so fortunate to have had a life-long career working with smart, interesting and good people," said Kersting. "SEMA's reason for existence was to help the people in this great industry and to give them tools and fuel to blast forward. I feel honored and humbled to have that work recognized."

Jack Priegel 

The late Priegel was an electrical engineer and worked for Raytheon at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., before he founded Autotronic Controls Corporation, better known as MSD Ignition, in his garage in 1970. Priegel and his engineers invented the multiple spark discharge ignition system known as MSD. MSD drove ignition technology for more than 40 years to both the street and racing markets, bringing soft-touch rev limiting to the performance and racing market in addition to crankshaft trigger systems, timing retards, start retards, and many other ignition products. Under his leadership, MSD was a SEMA member and active SEMA Show participant for more than four decades. Priegel supported his team members to be active SEMA volunteers during all of those years. Priegel died in September 2018.

"It's such an honor, and I'm proud of him and the work he accomplished," said Sharon Priegel--Jack's wife--upon hearing about the Hall of Fame announcement. 

Les Rudd 

With extensive involvement in SEMA and the automotive industry for more than 35 years, Rudd's leadership and guidance have been pivotal to the industry. His tenure on the SEMA Board of Directors, including notable roles such as treasurer and chair-elect, provided invaluable direction and stability to the organization. Furthermore, Rudd's active participation across various councils, networks, and committees fostered collaboration and unity within the industry. His efforts facilitated networking opportunities, thereby promoting collective progress and growth, solidifying SEMA's role as a unifying force. Today, as president of Bob Cook Sales, Rudd's responsibilities encompass a myriad of roles, from business management and sales leadership to manufacturer representation. His steadfast dedication to advancing the interests of his clients and the industry at large continues to be the guiding force behind his illustrious career.

"How do I now enter industry eternity with my heroes, my mentors, my friends? There is nothing more humbling than to be honored by your peers," said Rudd.

Jon Wyly 

At a time when the industry was struggling with data due to the absence of an industry data standard, Wyly organized a group of SEMA members to define the problem via the SEMA Business Technology Committee (BTC). The BTC evolved into the SEMA Data Co-op (now SEMA Data), which Wyly ran as the program's CEO for five years. SEMA Data is a key member benefit that offers manufacturers a way to better organize their data and drive business success. With a career spanning more than 40 years in the automotive aftermarket, including key roles in sales, marketing, e-commerce and business data management, Wyly also served on numerous SEMA task forces and work groups, including six years on the SEMA Board of Directors, and was named SEMA Person of the Year in 2005 in recognition of his contributions.­  

"I've had the good fortune to spend my entire career in an industry that I love, surrounded by talented, inspiring people," said Wyly. "Now, to find myself honored with induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame alongside many of my friends and heroes, is nothing short of amazing, and quite a humbling experience." 

For more information or to secure tickets to the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala, click here.

By SEMA News Editors

Exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas Convention Center, are offering products, parts and services for builders working on vehicles set for display at the SEMA Show this year.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is updated frequently, and features product offers and contact information from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors looking to collaborate with builders. Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should connect with exhibitors directly using the provided contact information.

Note: All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder. Each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show must be supported by a current 2024 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2024 SEMA Show only. Exhibitors: to be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Qualified builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2024 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

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Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. The Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used by exhibitors to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2024 SEMA Show. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to confirm the builder is affiliated with and working on a vehicle that will be on display at the SEMA Show. For more information about the list, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources have shared new images of the '26 Volkswagen Atlas, revealing that the next generation of the crossover SUV will remain internal-combustion-powered.

Although it is unclear if the new model will hit dealerships in 2025 or 2026, the new Atlas is reported to be powered by a turbocharged 2.0L engine that produces 269 hp and delivers power through an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel or four-wheel drive.

While the exterior updates are modest, VW has gone digital on the inside with a new 10.3-in. driver display and a 12.0-in. center touchscreen. Wireless phone charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and VW's suite of IQ.Drive driver-assist technologies are all standard and will continue into the next generation, according to insiders.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) is hosting a networking Happy Hour during the Minnesota Street Rod Association's (MSRA) "Back to the '50s Weekend" in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The event will take place on Thursday, June 20, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. CT at O'Gara's Bar at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. RSVP here.

The mixer is the ideal event for HRIA members to grow their professional network, discover resources for hot rod businesses and connect with the select committee. Attendees will learn about the council's current initiatives, find open volunteer opportunities and forge valuable industry relationships over complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages.

Prospective HRIA members are encouraged to attend the event, as it's a great way to discover the benefits of membership.

RSVP here.

By SEMA News Editors

Team Allied Distribution has officially acquired Gator Products, Inc., a Missouri-based undercar exhaust warehouse distributor. The acquisition enhances Team Allied's operations and expands its territorial reach throughout the Midwest. The integration includes Gator Products' distribution operations, assets, on-site inventory, and the onboarding of a talented team of employees, according to Team Allied.

"For Team Allied Distribution, the greatest asset of any acquisition is the talented people who built the business into what it is today. None of this would be possible without Gator Products' talented team. We look forward to welcoming them into Team Allied Distribution as future employee-owners," said Darrell Kurth, president of Team Allied.

Established in 1979, Gator Products specializes in the distribution of aftermarket automotive exhaust products and emissions components. The company operates from two facilities in Springfield and Bridgeton (St. Louis metro), Missouri, with more than 34,000 square feet of warehouse capacity. Its distribution includes Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas and Kentucky.

Team Allied Distribution has more than 390,000 square feet of warehouse capacity throughout 25 facilities located in the Western and Midwestern United States.

Founded in 1976, Team Allied is the independent warehouse distributor of automotive exhaust, with more than 390,000 square feet of warehouse capacity throughout 25 facilities located in the Western and Midwestern United States. It is a 100% employee-owned company with over 220 employee-owners.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Kim Ziomek, director of business development at Schwartz Machine Company, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Ziomek in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there? 

Kim Ziomek: I joined Schwartz Machine Company (SMC) in February 2021 during the pandemic and was welcomed by the team to grow and enhance our precision machining operations for racing, marine agricultural, off-highway, OEM and Tier 1 prototypes. I enjoy seeing the raw casting come in from our customers and leaving a beautiful masterpiece of precision machining that could be displayed in a museum! 

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

KZ: Seeking new business and forecasting; turning the "ah-ha" moment into POs when customers realize that SMC is a Women's Business Enterprise National Council-approved woman-owned/women-led supplier in precision machining. SMC is in a very niche market specializing in precision machining prototype castings, which are low volume. Although we are not the "cheapest" in prototype precision machining, for 70-plus years SMC has remained focused on quality, customer satisfaction and a steadfast reputation. 

SN: How many years have you been in the industry, and what was your first industry job?  

KZ: I have been in the automotive industry since 1985 and started at TRW (now ZF) in sales for infant and baby car seat plastic shells, EDP, heat treating and aftermarket. As a part of aftermarket, I remember attending my first TRW race car event and how big my eyes were watching the event logistics from the pits. I will never forget that experience. 

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

KZ: Passion, compassion and integrity. My career has been supported by my father, Joe Ziomek. Since I started, he always pushed me to be the best I could be at whatever I did. My energy level is tremendous in terms of offering my experiences, passion and compassion for women who are starting in the mobility space, and being a mentor to women who seek counsel and guidance in their career journey. My passion and compassion are to always raise my hand to volunteer for assignments, and that brought me opportunities to meet, greet and participate in professional industry functions to grow my network. I am one of the co-founders of the Automotive Women's Alliance Foundation (AWAF) and since our inception, I have had the privilege to meet and greet women in the industry that you may not work with in your everyday work environment. 

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? 

KZ: My biggest accomplishment was being awarded the Automotive News "Top 100 Most Influential Woman in Automotive Award" in 2000. This was the inaugural event that now continues every five years. My biggest challenge is to leave a legacy that paves a path for both current and future women to be successful in their careers without boundaries. 

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?   

KZ: My father is my most admired role model. He started at Ford and supported my automotive career through all the challenges and successes with no judgment.

Anne Stevens, CEO of GKN, provided me with guidance that was "real" and really made me think about who I am and what value I bring to the automotive sector. She had a remarkable way of getting to the heart of a matter and boosting you up to know that you can do anything you set your mind to.

Alan Mulally, the former CEO of Ford Motor Company, taught me to lead with positive comments rather than criticism. Alan is still one of the most charismatic and driven men I have ever met and really listens to others. 

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

KZ: Never, ever give up, and "no" just means "not yet." This advice is golden and just remember--all good things come to those who wait, and patience pays. Positive thoughts always prevail! 

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here? 

KZ: I always wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps, and I love math, science and engineering. I am here because I love this industry and it is never dull or boring and what a great time to be a part of the industry with electric vehicles being so prevalent. People like Lynn St. James and John McElroy keep moving forward and have broken the "barriers" that others have thrown in their pathway and that is what keeps me here. 

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals? 

KZ: My father--Joe Ziomek--bar none. 

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Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.