Ron Capps' partnership with NAPA Auto Parts has defied conventional norms in modern motorsports by maintaining an almost two-decade-long bond between the team owner and his long-time sponsor. The relationship, built on trust and authenticity, is now set to evolve as 21-year-old Maddi Gordon takes the reins behind the wheel of Capps' first Top Fuel entry.
The key to Capps' enduring success lies in his ability to connect with customers and mechanics on a genuine level, transcending the conventional boundaries between sponsors and athletes. "He's never just been a logo on a car," said Danny Huffaker, Senior Vice President of Product and Marketing for NAPA Auto Parts. "Ron is part of our culture."
When Capps made the leap from driver to team owner in 2022, NAPA didn't hesitate to follow him into Ron Capps Motorsports, backing not just a car but an identity built on faith and authenticity. The partnership has become synonymous with consistency, with both sides valuing long-term growth over short-term gains.
The upcoming introduction of Carlyle Tools, a NAPA brand pushing for a new identity focused on STEM and hands-on craftsmanship, marks another milestone in the evolution of this partnership. Both Capps' legacy and Maddi Gordon's emergence as a rising star embody the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, demonstrating that authenticity remains an enduring value in modern motorsports.
"This is where NAPA is heading," said Huffaker, highlighting the synergy between Ron Capps' authentic ethos and Maddi Gordon's fresh perspective. As the partnership enters this new era, it's clear that both sides share a commitment to doing things the right way – rather than just chasing trends or relying on digital engagement.
For Capps, the NAPA logo represents more than just sponsorship; it symbolizes his blue-collar heritage and the people who've supported him since the start. "That's what makes it special," he said, reflecting on a partnership that continues to inspire trust and loyalty in both its long-time leader and its newest rising star.
The key to Capps' enduring success lies in his ability to connect with customers and mechanics on a genuine level, transcending the conventional boundaries between sponsors and athletes. "He's never just been a logo on a car," said Danny Huffaker, Senior Vice President of Product and Marketing for NAPA Auto Parts. "Ron is part of our culture."
When Capps made the leap from driver to team owner in 2022, NAPA didn't hesitate to follow him into Ron Capps Motorsports, backing not just a car but an identity built on faith and authenticity. The partnership has become synonymous with consistency, with both sides valuing long-term growth over short-term gains.
The upcoming introduction of Carlyle Tools, a NAPA brand pushing for a new identity focused on STEM and hands-on craftsmanship, marks another milestone in the evolution of this partnership. Both Capps' legacy and Maddi Gordon's emergence as a rising star embody the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, demonstrating that authenticity remains an enduring value in modern motorsports.
"This is where NAPA is heading," said Huffaker, highlighting the synergy between Ron Capps' authentic ethos and Maddi Gordon's fresh perspective. As the partnership enters this new era, it's clear that both sides share a commitment to doing things the right way – rather than just chasing trends or relying on digital engagement.
For Capps, the NAPA logo represents more than just sponsorship; it symbolizes his blue-collar heritage and the people who've supported him since the start. "That's what makes it special," he said, reflecting on a partnership that continues to inspire trust and loyalty in both its long-time leader and its newest rising star.
She's got some serious skills and I love how she's carrying on Ron Capps' legacy of authenticity 
The way NAPA is evolving with Carlyle Tools and STEM focus, it's like they're speaking our language now 
This partnership is truly a win-win, where both sides get to grow and stay true to themselves 
Can't wait to see what the future holds for this amazing team! 
The key to NAPA's longevity is Capps' genuine connection with customers & mechanics - it's not just about the $$$ 
. He's built a culture, not just a logo 
. Capps' ability to connect with customers on a personal level has been key to their success, and it's awesome that NAPA has caught onto that. The fact that they're now introducing Carlyle Tools with a STEM focus is a nice nod to innovation 
. And I think Maddi Gordon's involvement is gonna be a great addition to the team – she's got that fresh perspective that'll help keep things exciting 
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He's literally built a team around his values of authenticity and connection with customers, which is so refreshing! It shows that brands can be more than just logos on cars 
. And now with Maddi Gordon joining the mix, it's exciting to see how she'll infuse her own fresh perspective into this partnership 
. This partnership is the real deal – it's not just about winning or fame, but about staying true to who you are and what your community means to you 
. It's a great reminder that authenticity and trust can lead to long-term success in any field - sports, business, or even parenting 
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. I mean, it's not all about chasing trends and digital engagement, it's about doing things right and building something real. And Ron Capps is definitely living his best life, embracing his blue-collar roots and whatnot 
. Like, these people are truly committed to each other, and that's something we could all learn from 
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. It shows that even as the industry evolves, they're not just trying to follow trends – they're committed to doing things the right way. And it's great to see Maddi Gordon coming up through the ranks 
. Ron and NAPA have been together for years, and it's clear that they value their relationship over just trying to make a quick buck. I think we can all learn from that