Sounds like it.Do a dry compression test. Then do a wet compression test. If the number drastically increase, you will know it's the rings. Seems the rings are the likely suspect if you just replaced them. They may have not seated properly
The fact that he was out on the track with only a 1000 miles on them, I would say zero break in.What break in method did you use?
Check you PCV valve and make sure it's functioning correctly.its not blow by we were wrong, just air coming out of the oil filler when the cap is off is all, could be something else though.