In this episode of The Dirt Parlor, Don Martin and Gordy Gundaker sit down with one of the most accomplished and resilient drivers in the sport, Brian Shirley. Known today as a superstar late model driver and the 2023 Prairie Dirt Classic Champion, Brian’s journey didn’t begin on four wheels—it started with no roll cage, high speeds, and the adrenaline of flat track motorcycle racing. From his AMA championship days to conquering dirt late models, his story is one of grit, transition, and relentless pursuit of victory.

Brian opens up about the rollercoaster of his 2023 season, which started with a devastating fire and nearly ended before it could begin. With unwavering support from team owner Bob Cullen, family, and sponsors, Shirley pushed through setbacks that would have sidelined most. The conversation digs deep into how his persistence and old-school work ethic, instilled by his father, helped him turn a season of chaos into a championship run.

The show also takes a nostalgic trip back to Brian’s roots, from buying his first late model for $10, to running against legends at Farmer City, to the high-speed thrills of racing the Springfield Mile on two wheels. It’s a candid, entertaining, and inspiring look at a career that spans motorcycles, dirt cars, and everything in between. Whether you’re a fan of late models or flat track racing, this episode shows why Brian Shirley is a name etched into dirt racing history.

 

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🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.