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The Zips Racing Team's NASCAR Adventure
The University of Akron's Zips Racing Team recently enjoyed an exceptional experience during a NASCAR race weekend at Watkins Glen, New York. Six students had the unforgettable opportunity to see firsthand the intricacies involved in professional stock car racing, gaining insights that textbooks alone cannot provide.
Immersive Learning at Watkins Glen International
As guests of Kaulig Racing, owned by esteemed alumnus Matt Kaulig, the Zips Racing members attended both the qualifying and practice rounds for the 2025 Go Bowling at the Glen. They also had the chance to witness the NASCAR Xfinity Series' Mission 200, enabling them to see everything from pit stops to driver interactions in real-time. "We really got a general overview of NASCAR and how a team operates on race day," said team captain Andrew Raineri, highlighting the unique insights gained.
Hands-On Experience Beyond the Classroom
Established in 1989, Zips Racing is an engineering-focused team that challenges students to design and compete with formula-style racing cars. Each year, students dedicate 8-12 months to develop and fabricate their vehicles. This immersive weekend is a testament to the hands-on learning opportunities provided by the College of Engineering and Polymer Science, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. As Raineri expressed, the access to Kaulig's expertise and technical staff left a lasting impression. "We learned things that we couldn’t have learned anywhere else, so we’re very grateful."
Looking Ahead: The Future of Zips Racing
As the Zips Racing team gears up for its next project, which involves designing the ZR26—a fully electric vehicle set to compete in April 2026—the experience at Watkins Glen has certainly motivated them. It reinforces the notion that hands-on experiences like these not only enhance technical skills but also inspire future engineers and innovators.
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