David Starr will compete for a starting position in the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season-opening event at Daytona International Speedway behind the wheel of the No. 53 Joey Gase Motorsports Chevrolet. Starr will carry primary sponsorship from APEX Wireless and Cell Phones for Soldiers on the car.
Starr, 58, is elated to tackle the high banks at Daytona while helping spread the word about the initiatives set forth by his sponsorship partners.
“Daytona is one of the most iconic tracks in the world, and having partners who represent purpose and service makes this opportunity even more meaningful,” said Starr. “APEX Wireless and Cell Phones for Soldiers are making a real difference, and I’m honored to help bring awareness to their mission.”
According to a press release, APEX Wireless has attempted for years to serve as a primary sponsor in NASCAR’s second-tier series, but a prior conflict prevented them from doing so. Now, they’re happy to finally have their brand showcased on one of the biggest motorsports stages in the United States.
“This incredible opportunity allows us to share our mission with NASCAR fans across the country, raising awareness and inspiring more people to help us connect veterans in need,” said Rob Bergquist, Founder & Director for Cell Phones for Soldiers. “Every day, 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide, often driven by isolation and loneliness. Our work directly combats these challenges by providing the connectivity and support our heroes deserve.”
By partnering with Starr, a native of Houston, Texas, APEX Wireless has a stable veteran racer going into battle with them. Starr recorded four victories in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series from 2002 to 2006, and the veteran racer has competed in more than 600 combined races between the NASCAR Cup, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Craftsman Truck Series throughout his career.
Starr has snagged four top-10 finishes in NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition, the most recent coming in an eighth-place result at Talladega Superspeedway in Fall 2024.
