12/1/2024
Chili Bowl Nationals
Zach Chappell Continuing As Tulsa Expo Raceway Competition Director
(Image Credit: Ashley Allinson)
Bryan Hulbert – TULSA, Okla. (December 1, 2024) Continuing his role as the Competition Director for Tulsa Expo Raceway, Zach Chappell will enter his fourth event overseeing the action at the Smiley’s Racing Products Tulsa Shootout powered by NOS Energy Drink, and the Chili Bowl Nationals powered by NOS Energy Drink.
Taking over in 2022 after Matt Ward was promoted to Director of Operations, Chappell spent several years prior serving as the assistant director with Ward, along with time spent working the infield and parking.
A former ASCS National Tour Champion and participant in the Chili Bowl Nationals, Chappell brings a well-rounded perspective to the position that endeavors to provide a fair shake for everyone who pulls on the track.
“I appreciate the Hahn and Edwards family for trusting me to keep the show fair and keep things moving,” stated Chappell.
“When Matt was promoted, and I found out I was taking over that position, I’m not going to lie, it had me nervous. It’s different being the assistant and providing that extra set of eyes versus the one actually making the call, but it has to be made regardless of who is involved. That’s the most important part of what we do.”
Ward, who also recently took over as the promoter and general manager at Creek County Speedway, will continue his role as Director of Operations for Tulsa Expo Raceway.
“Having Zach in the booth, I know these events have someone in place that understands not only how the show needs to be run, but what they are dealing with too because he’s been in their shoes and takes that experience into consideration. In my opinion, as someone who races, you have to have that to be fair and accurate,” explained Matt Ward.
The 40th edition of the Tulsa Shootout takes place December 30, 2024, through January 4, 2025, with the 39th Chili Bowl Nationals happening January 13-18, 2025. Both events are contested under the roof of the SageNet Center at Expo Square.
Teams can enter the Tulsa Shootout online at https://www.myracepass.com/series/1531/registrations. Entry into the Chili Bowl Nationals can be done via email to chilibowlentries@gmail.com or by phone to (918) 838-3777.
Information on both events is online at http://www.tulsashootout.com and http://www.chilibowl.com.
Submitted By: Bryan Hulbert