dirt racing, late models, Michael King Jr, racing journey, sponsorship, community engagement, The Dome, racing legends, racing experiences, motorsports

Summary

In this episode of Mid-America Dirt, host Skip Garland interviews Michael King Jr., a dirt track racer from El Dorado, Arkansas. Michael shares his journey from a racing family in Kentucky to competing in late models, discussing the challenges and triumphs he has faced along the way. He highlights his experiences at The Dome, his plans for the upcoming racing season, and the importance of community engagement and sponsorships in the racing world. Michael also reflects on the influence of racing legends and the thrill of being behind the wheel, emphasizing the camaraderie and support within the racing community.

Takeaways

Michael's favorite race is The Dome, which he looks forward to every year.

The competition at The Dome is intense, likened to the Chili Bowl.

His first race experience was a heat race win, sparking his passion for racing.

Luck plays a significant role in racing success, especially at The Dome.

Racing is therapeutic for Michael, providing a unique thrill.

Community engagement is vital, and he values fan interactions at the track.

Louisiana and Texas need more late model events to grow the sport.

Michael aspires to drive a sprint car, appreciating their unique racing style.

He acknowledges the challenges of securing sponsorships in the current economy.

Michael is grateful for the support of his sponsors and the racing community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:56 Racing Journey and Early Experiences

06:06 Transition to Late Models and Recent Achievements

08:55 The Dome Experience and Future Plans

11:54 Sponsorships and Community Engagement

14:54 Reflections on Racing Legends and Personal Growth

17:59 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Keywords

racing, Jerrett Bransom, Texas Motor Speedway, IMCA, late model, dirt track, racing family, racing career, motorsports, Kennedale Speedway

Summary

In this episode of Mid-America Dirt, host Skip Garland interviews Jerrett Bransom, a prolific racer from Burleson, Texas. Jerrett shares insights about his racing career, which includes racing in multiple classes and his family's deep-rooted involvement in the sport. He discusses his upcoming race at Texas Motor Speedway, his transition to late model racing, and his aspirations for the future. The conversation highlights the challenges and excitement of racing, as well as the importance of family and community in the sport.

Takeaways

Jerrett has participated in 69 features this year.

He races primarily in the IMCA Southern Sport mods and stock cars.

Jerrett's family owns Kennedy Speedway Park, his home track.

He started racing at a young age, beginning with go-karts.

Jerrett is transitioning to late model racing, seeking more experience.

He aims to gain seat time at Texas Motor Speedway.

Jerrett has won multiple track championships at his home track.

He hopes for a slick surface at the upcoming race.

The racing community is supportive and collaborative.

Jerrett expresses gratitude towards his sponsors and family for their support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jerrett Bransom and His Racing Career

02:58 Racing Family Legacy and Early Beginnings

05:59 Transitioning to Late Model Racing

08:58 Upcoming Race at Texas Motor Speedway

11:58 Future Aspirations in Racing

Keywords

racing, flagging, dirt track, late models, sprint cars, Texas Motor Speedway, Revival Super Dirt Series, racing community, safety, championship weekend

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Skip Garland interviews Chris Loberg, also known as Yankee Chris, who shares his journey in the world of racing, from his early days as a spectator and photographer to becoming a flagman for the Revival Super Dirt Series. Chris discusses the importance of safety in racing, his experiences at various tracks, and the upcoming championship weekend at Texas Motor Speedway. He emphasizes the need to build a community around racing and make heroes out of local drivers, while also reflecting on the evolution of the sport and the camaraderie among racers.

Takeaways

Chris Loberg is a relatively new flagman, starting in 2023.

He emphasizes safety for drivers and track crew.

Chris has a rich history in racing, starting from a young age.

He has worked as a photographer and pit crew member before flagging.

The Revival Super Dirt Series is gaining popularity and aims to grow.

Chris believes in making local drivers household names.

He prepares meticulously for each race, checking track lights and switches.

The upcoming championship weekend is expected to be a major event.

Chris values the community aspect of racing and the friendships formed.

He aims to provide an entertaining experience for both drivers and fans.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Racing and Flagging

05:54 Chris's Racing Journey

11:57 The Evolution of Racing and Safety

17:42 The Revival Super Dirt Series

24:06 The Upcoming Championship Weekend

29:45 The Importance of Community in Racing

35:47 The Future of Racing and Building Heroes

41:49 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Keywords

dirt racing, Kylan Garner, Texas Motor Speedway, racing sponsorship, super late models, racing highlights, track conditions, racing community, merchandise, fan experience

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Skip Garland and Kylan Garner discuss the upcoming Texas Motor Speedway dirt racing event, reflecting on Kylan's successful racing season, key highlights, and the importance of sponsorship in the racing world. They delve into the unique challenges of different tracks, the excitement of diverse racing formats, and the community aspect of racing. Kylan shares insights on his experiences and future plans, emphasizing the thrill of competing at prestigious venues and the camaraderie among racers.

Takeaways

Kylan Garner is excited about the upcoming Texas Motor Speedway event.

Winning at Belleville was a significant highlight for Kylan this season.

Track conditions can greatly affect race outcomes and strategies.

Sponsorship is crucial for success in racing, with significant costs involved.

Diverse racing formats attract a wide range of fans and participants.

Merchandise sales are an important aspect of engaging with the racing community.

Kylan has a strong record at Keeney, winning six out of eight races there.

The thrill of racing at large venues like Texas Motor Speedway is unmatched.

Community support and sponsorship are vital for racers to compete at high levels.

Kylan looks forward to seeing his former car driven by another racer.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Excitement for Texas Races

03:01 Season Highlights and Key Wins

05:56 Racing Experiences and Challenges

08:51 Upcoming Races and Preparation

12:00 The Cost of Racing and Sponsorships

15:06 Diverse Racing Events and Fan Experience

18:02 Merchandise and Future Plans

21:07 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments

Keywords

Revival Super Dirt Series, dirt racing, late models, Kansas, Oklahoma, racing community, Power I, Texas Motor Speedway, driver loyalty, racing talent

Summary

In this conversation, Tyler Magee, co-founder of the Revival Super Dirt Series, discusses the growth and challenges of dirt racing in Kansas and Oklahoma. He shares insights on building a racing community, the importance of quality talent, and the series' commitment to promoting drivers. The conversation also covers the upcoming Texas Motor Speedway event and the partnership with Power I, highlighting the series' focus on supporting racers and enhancing the local racing scene.

Takeaways

The Revival Super Dirt Series aims to revitalize dirt racing in Kansas and Oklahoma.

Building a community of racers is essential for the growth of the sport.

Quality racing talent is crucial for the success of local racing events.

The series has seen significant growth in events and participation since its inception.

Local tracks play a vital role in providing opportunities for racers.

Tyler Magee has a rich family history in racing, influencing his passion for the sport.

The series focuses on promoting drivers to create household names in the racing community.

The upcoming Texas Motor Speedway event is a significant milestone for the series.

Partnerships with organizations like Power I enhance the series' offerings and safety.

The series is committed to supporting drivers through initiatives like the driver loyalty program.

Chapters

00:00 The Birth of Revival Super Dirt Series

03:07 Building a Racing Community

06:12 The Importance of Local Tracks

08:56 The Evolution of Late Model Racing

12:10 Family Legacy in Racing

15:02 Promoting Drivers and Building Names

17:47 The Future of Revival Super Dirt Series

25:54 The Busy Offseason

26:30 Power I and Its Role

28:38 Championship Weekend in Texas

30:02 Points Standings and Driver Insights

31:26 Anticipation for Texas Motor Speedway

34:25 Driver Loyalty and Support Programs

39:44 Building Relationships in Racing

40:22 Event Details for Texas Motor Speedway

Keywords

Tyler Breashears, crew chief, late model racing, ASD Motorsports, racing community, team dynamics, local racing promotion, racing strategy, motorsports career

Summary

In this conversation, Tyler Breashears, a crew chief for a top-tier national late model racing team, shares his journey from growing up around racing to becoming a key player in the motorsports world. He discusses the importance of teamwork, the challenges of life on the road, and the dynamics of working with driver Ethan Dodson. Tyler emphasizes the significance of community involvement in promoting local racing and the strategies that can help grow the sport. The conversation also touches on the technical aspects of race preparation and the camaraderie that exists within the racing community.

Takeaways

Tyler's journey into racing began at a young age, influenced by his family.

Building relationships in racing is crucial for success.

Transitioning from a duck call builder to a crew chief was a significant change.

Team chemistry is essential for a successful racing team.

Ethan Dodson's role as a driver is complemented by strong team dynamics.

Weekly race preparation involves thorough maintenance and teamwork.

Promoting local racing requires community involvement and engagement.

The importance of having a baseline setup for races is critical.

Preventative maintenance can help avoid parts failures during races.

Racing is a tight-knit community where everyone supports each other.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tyler Breashears and His Journey

08:10 Transitioning from Hobby to Professional

16:08 Life on the Road and Personal Changes

28:48 Celebrating Milestones in Racing

35:06 Weekly Racing Routines and Maintenance

40:11 Preparing for Upcoming Races

46:35 Promoting Local Racing

51:46 Building Community Support for Racing

Keywords

Brodie Thompson, Talladega, racing, 602 late model, go-karts, dirt track, competition, future aspirations, merchandise, fan engagement

Summary

In this episode of Mid-America Dirt, Skip Garland interviews Brodie Thompson, a rising star in the racing world from Talladega, Alabama. Brodie shares his journey from starting in go-karts during the COVID-19 pandemic to becoming the 602 late model champion at Talladega. He discusses his achievements, including multiple wins and a strong national points finish, as well as his plans for the future, including running double duty in different classes. The conversation also touches on the importance of go-kart racing for skill development, the competitive nature of racing at Talladega, and Brodie's merchandise for fans. The episode concludes with Brodie expressing his aspirations to reach higher levels in racing and his excitement for upcoming events.

Takeaways

Brodie had two wins at Talladega and one at Extreme.

He finished sixth overall in national points for 602 late models.

Brodie started racing go-karts at age 10 due to COVID-19.

He won two championships in go-karts before moving to late models.

Brodie's 602 late model is a GRT chassis.

He plans to run both 602 and 604 late models next season.

Brodie has raced at 14 different tracks in the southeast.

He enjoys the competition at Talladega, facing experienced racers.

Brodie's goal is to reach national super late model racing.

He has merchandise available for fans, including t-shirts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brodie Thompson

02:59 Brodie's Racing Journey and Achievements

05:58 Racing Experience and Competition

09:04 Future Aspirations in Racing

12:00 Merchandise and Fan Engagement

14:53 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

Blaze Burwell, racing journey, late models, motorsports business, tire testing, community support, local racing, racing parts, crate motors, racing challenges

Summary

In this episode of Mid-America Dirt, host Skip Garland interviews Blaze Burwell, a passionate racer and motorsports entrepreneur. Blaise shares his journey from go-kart racing at a young age to becoming a successful late model racer and business owner. He discusses the challenges of racing, the importance of community support, and the evolution of racing parts and costs. The conversation also touches on the technical aspects of late model racing, the impact of tire testing controversies, and the need for more accessibility in the sport. Blaze emphasizes the importance of helping others in the racing community and the need for a balance between competition and affordability in local racing.

Takeaways

Blaze started racing go-karts at a young age.

He transitioned from go-karts to late models through various experiences.

Community support is crucial in racing, especially during tough times.

The cost of racing has increased significantly over the years.

Older late models can still be competitive with the right setup.

Adjusting to different chassis can be challenging but manageable.

Technical adjustments in late model racing are very precise.

Having a crew is essential for success in racing.

The racing community needs to address the gap between entry-level and professional racing.

Blaze's business focuses on providing affordable racing parts and cars.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Blaze Burwell

01:01 Blaze's Racing Journey

04:16 Trading and Business in Racing

08:14 Transitioning to Full-Time Racing

10:15 The Market for Racing Parts

12:04 Kryptonite Race Cars and Their Impact

14:02 Comparing Late Models and Modifieds

15:16 Racing Older Late Models

18:17 Adjustments in Driving Different Chassis

20:49 The Technical Side of Late Model Racing

22:28 The Importance of a Crew

24:38 The Changing Landscape of Racing

26:22 Family Legacy in Racing

27:46 Regional vs. National Racing Series

29:04 The Journey of Racing Success

32:44 Overcoming Challenges in Racing

36:08 The Controversy of Tire Chemicals

43:14 Supporting the Next Generation of Racers

49:11 The State of Late Model Racing

Keywords

Dirt Gangster Apparel, racing, merchandise, entrepreneurship, family business, graphic design, motorsports, apparel brand, marketing, community

Summary

In this episode, Skip Garland interviews Cassandra and Michael from Dirt Gangster Apparel, a brand rooted in racing heritage. They discuss their backgrounds as third-generation racers, the story behind the brand's inception, and the challenges they faced in business. The conversation highlights their commitment to engaging with the racing community through merchandise and sponsorships, as well as their future goals for expansion and marketing. The episode emphasizes the importance of family, community, and the passion for motorsports that drives their brand

.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dirt Gangster Apparel

02:58 Racing Backgrounds and Family Heritage

05:48 The Evolution of Dirt Gangster Apparel

08:55 Challenges and Triumphs in Business

11:59 Merchandise Offerings and Customer Engagement

15:04 Community Connections and Sponsorships

18:37 The Racing Family Connection

20:31 Marketing and Online Sales Challenges

22:23 Expanding the Brand Across States

24:44 Product Showcase: New Merchandise

28:05 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

31:59 Partnerships and Promotions

Keywords

racing, dirt track, late models, Roswell, New Mexico, racing journey, sponsorship, education, future aspirations, track experiences

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Skip Garland interviews Ashley Buck, a talented young racer from Roswell, New Mexico. They discuss Ashley's journey from a racing family background to her experiences in various racing classes, including drag racing and dirt track racing. Ashley shares her transition to late models, her experiences at different tracks, and her aspirations to compete at higher levels in the racing world. The conversation also touches on the balance between racing and education, sponsorships, and future plans in the sport.

Takeaways

Ashley Buck hails from a racing family in Roswell, New Mexico.

She started racing at a young age, transitioning from drag racing to dirt track racing.

Ashley has won track championships in her early racing career.

She recently transitioned to racing late models, which she finds exciting.

Ashley enjoys the challenge of racing at various tracks across the region.

Her goal is to compete in the Lucas Oil late models and eventually the World of Outlaws.

She balances her racing career with her education, often working on her car during weekends.

Ashley has a supportive network of sponsors that help her racing endeavors.

She plans to race in the Sooners series next year and explore new opportunities.

Ashley is enthusiastic about the future of her racing career and the experiences it brings.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Racing and Roswell

02:57 Ashlee's Racing Journey Begins

06:03 Transitioning to Late Models

08:54 Experiences at Various Tracks

11:43 Future Aspirations in Racing

14:46 Balancing Racing and Education

17:38 Sponsorships and Support

20:32 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans