How did you get started in racing?
I have always been a fan of cars and racing. I started attending NASCAR and NHRA races with my family. My dad sponsored some Xfinity races with Derrike Cope for two years, and that got me behind the scenes of racing. I then started racing go karts at arrive and drive events and won. This prompted my dad to buy me a go kart and we won our first race in it. We raced about 4 races and the season ended. During the off season we bought a Bandolero stock car, and prepared to race it the following year. I won 22 straight races that year (2017), and 33 in 2018, but not straight. I was track champion two years in a row (2017 & 2018), as well as rookie of the year in 2017 and most improved driver in 2018.
What's the most enjoyable thing about racing?
Being in a car and the challenges I face on the track. Having to make quick decisions.
What division do you race in and what tracks do you race at?
Bandolero cars are regulated by INEX out of North Carolina. I ranked 24th in the nation last year. My dad and I travel all over the mid-west to race. This year we raced at Spartan Speedway (MI), Flat Rock Speedway (MI), Springport Speedway (MI), Barberton Speedway (OH), Lake Erie Speedway (PA), Evan Mills Speedway (NY), Chemung Speedway (NY), State Park Speedway (WI), Golden Sands Speedway (WI) and Jefferson Speedway (WI). We also raced at Charlotte Motor Speedway in NC.
Which track is the most challenging?
I really enjoyed racing at Lake Erie Speedway. It's a 3/8 mile NASCAR styled track. The most challenging is Barberton Speedway in Ohio.
Tell us about the car you race.
Bandolero cars are lightweight spec cars running a sealed 570cc Briggs & Stratton twin cylinder engine. It has an output of 30hp and can do 80 MPH. All cars must weigh a minimum of 750lb. We have four cars.
How do you prepare yourself for a weekend when you race more then one track?
My dad prepares the car for each track. We do different gear, carbs and spring set ups. I watch a lot of videos of races at the track if I'm new to it. It helps me learn about the drivers, as well as what lines look best. I also do a lot of iracing on my simulator.
Is there any race that sticks in your mind from the past, and why?
My mistakes stick in my mind the most. At Evan Mills Speedway in NY I gave up a heat win on the last turn because I ran too high of a line. It hurts to loose a race when it's my fault. There's also a time at Jefferson Speedway in WI that I tried to put my car under another car when there simply was no room. Caused a crash. Teaches me to be more patient and wait for the opening. My last race of 2018 was most memorable. I came from last place to first to win the race on the last turns. Teaches me to never give up and the race isn't over until I cross the finish line. Never know what will happen with the other cars and lap traffic.
When this season is over, how many races will you have run?
So far I have ran 24 races. We have scheduled 32 races this year.
If you had to pick a NASCAR driver to compare your driving style to who would it be and why?
Kyle Larson is my favorite driver. He drives hard and smart.
What are your goals in life?
To work for a NASCAR team as an engineer.
So when your not racing, what do you do for fun?
I play soccer and play computer games. We spend time at our cottage too. I do some volunteer work as well. I love to read.
Tell us something about you that would surprise your fans.
I play the piano.
Tell us about your sponsors and people you like to thank?
My primary sponsor is the Jackson Coffee Co. and my dad. I have to thank my dad, mom, grandma and brother. They all support me so much. There is no way I could travel the mid-west without the support of my family.
If you could win any race in the world which one would you want to win?
The next one. (or a road course at US Air)