Earlier this year, at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Josh Berry achieved a significant milestone in his racing career by clinching his first victory in the prestigious Cup Series, steering the renowned No. 21 Wood Brothers car to the winner’s circle. Although Berry has previously celebrated five wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, it was through the CARS Late Model Tour that he truly established his reputation as a formidable competitor.
In 2017, Berry secured the championship title in the CARS Late Model Stock division, amassing an impressive 22 victories in just 56 races—an all-time record in the series. Recently, the CARS Tour gained notable visibility when FOX Sports 1 broadcasted the entire Window World 100 live from North Wilkesboro, right after the qualifying round for the NASCAR All-Star Race.
This primetime exposure is a rare opportunity for the CARS Tour, and Berry expressed his hopes for more such broadcasts in the future. “Having the race on FS1 is a big deal,” Berry remarked during a media session at the track. “The most important aspect for me is that the racing is of high quality. I hope tonight provides an exciting show, and the series visits various tracks that are known for delivering thrilling races. My main hope is that it attracts a solid audience and generates enthusiasm for more broadcasts down the line.”
The race, however, experienced a rocky beginning as a significant collision on Lap 2 involved around 15 cars. Nonetheless, it quickly found its groove, with Landen Lewis ultimately taking home the victory.
Berry’s Thoughts on ARCA
In discussing the state of racing, Berry did not hold back his opinions on the ARCA series. “To be honest, when I watch ARCA races, I find them quite disappointing,” he admitted. “The CARS Tour offers a far superior product for television, and they truly deserve this kind of exposure. I hope tonight’s event showcases that. My wish is that it doesn’t get too chaotic on screen; we want to maintain a steady pace for the races. I’m eager to see how it unfolds. The series is incredibly competitive these days—more competitive than ever, even compared to when I was actively racing in it. There are many positive aspects to this series, and I hope they hit a home run tonight.”
The CARS Tour event featured a robust lineup of 36 cars, with 15 finishing on the lead lap. When comparing the CARS Tour to ARCA, it’s evident that the CARS Tour often fields stronger competitors. For instance, the most recent event in Kansas had 26 cars take the green flag, but many of those vehicles struggled to keep pace and were sidelined within the first 30 laps. Notably, only ten drivers participated in all four races of the season up to that point, with just eight drivers completing the entire 2024 season.
Despite the validity of Berry’s observations, they sparked some controversy. A segment of the racing community criticized him for seemingly disparaging one series while promoting another. It’s worth noting that Berry does have limited experience in ARCA, having participated in two races back in 2018 and 2022.
The CARS Late Model Tour has been gaining traction in recent years, and events like the Window World 100 illustrate its growing popularity and competitiveness. The series has attracted drivers who are eager to showcase their skills and compete for accolades, making it an exciting platform for both racers and fans alike.
The anticipation surrounding the CARS Tour is palpable, with fans eager to witness exceptional talent and thrilling competition. The series has consistently demonstrated the ability to deliver high-octane racing experiences, and the recent broadcast on FS1 is a testament to its upward trajectory. As more viewers tune in, the hope is that the CARS Tour will continue to flourish, providing a stage for emerging talent and established drivers to shine.
As the racing landscape evolves, it’s crucial for series like CARS to leverage opportunities for exposure and growth. The combination of competitive racing, dedicated drivers, and increased visibility can lead to a brighter future for the sport. Josh Berry’s insights reflect a desire for improvement and acknowledgment of the potential that exists within the CARS Tour.
The CARS Tour has made strides in attracting a diverse range of competitors, each bringing their unique styles and strategies to the track. This diversity is what makes the racing so thrilling, as fans never know what to expect from each event. From seasoned veterans to up-and-coming stars, the CARS Tour is a melting pot of talent, all vying for the chance to make their mark in the racing world.
Furthermore, the camaraderie among drivers often leads to exciting rivalries and storylines that engage fans on a deeper level. As drivers push themselves to the limits, the drama and excitement of the competition unfold, creating memorable moments that resonate with audiences. The CARS Tour is not just about the races; it’s about the passion, the determination, and the pursuit of excellence that defines the sport.
In addition to the racing itself, the CARS Tour has worked to cultivate a strong relationship with its fan base. Engaging with fans through social media, community events, and interactive experiences at the track helps to build a loyal following. Fans are more likely to invest their time and energy into a series that values their support and keeps them informed about the latest developments.
As the CARS Tour continues to gain traction, it’s essential for the series to maintain its focus on quality racing and athlete development. Providing opportunities for drivers to showcase their skills while also ensuring that the races are competitive will be key to sustaining interest and growth in the long run.
The challenges faced by racing series are not unique to any one organization. Across the board, series must navigate issues related to funding, sponsorship, and marketability. However, the CARS Tour has shown resilience and adaptability, traits that will serve it well as it seeks to carve out its niche in the racing world.
In conclusion, the CARS Late Model Tour stands as a testament to the excitement and potential of grassroots racing. With drivers like Josh Berry at the forefront, the series is poised to make significant strides in the coming years. The combination of competitive racing, passionate drivers, and increased visibility through broadcasts like the Window World 100 ensures that the CARS Tour will remain a vital component of the racing landscape. As the series evolves, it has the potential to not only attract new fans but also to cultivate a new generation of racing talent.
