Every journey has a beginning, and mine into dirt racing starts with research, patience, and careful planning. The SpeedSTR division feels like the right place to start—not because it’s the end goal, but because it’s a realistic and practical first step. My father always dreamed of sprint cars, the kind of fire-breathing machines that inspire entire generations, but I know I have to start smaller, learn the ropes, and build toward that vision.

Right now, my time is focused on learning. I’ve been digging into every corner of the SpeedSTR community I can find, from online groups to race nights at local tracks. The information isn’t always easy to come by—this isn’t NASCAR with endless press coverage—but I’ve found that the more I listen, the more I understand the culture and the technical details that come with running one of these cars. Part of this stage also means figuring out where I’ll race, which tracks will realistically be my home base, and what rules and requirements I’ll need to meet. Alongside the research comes budgeting: car, safety gear, trailer, spare parts, fuel, and entry fees. I’ve started building a financial plan to keep the dream grounded in reality.

By late 2025 and into early 2026, the goal is to acquire my first car. I’ll be looking for a used SpeedSTR—not only to save money, but also because there’s no need for brand-new equipment when the first priority is seat time and experience. Once that car is in the shop, I’ll make sure I have the basic tools, a reliable tow vehicle, and all the safety equipment that racing requires. This is also the stage where the paperwork gets handled: registering with Speedway Entertainment, securing a race license, and getting insurance lined up.

Before diving into competition, I’ll spend time at practice sessions. The focus won’t be on being fast right away, but on building comfort with the car, learning how to handle it on dirt, and figuring out how different adjustments—like stagger, tire pressure, or gear changes—affect performance. At the same time, I’ll lean on friends and family to help me form a small pit crew, so that race nights run smoothly and safely.

The first real races should come by mid-2026, running part-time with a handful of events throughout that season and into 2027. These races will be about finishing, gathering experience, and keeping notes on car setups and track conditions. Every lap will be about learning, not chasing trophies. And in between those nights, I’ll be networking with other drivers and track staff, building the kind of connections that are just as important as time on the track.

The long-term goal is to step up to a full-time schedule for the 2027-2028 season. By then, the basics will be second nature, the equipment will be more refined, and Taylor Motorsports will have a stronger presence both on the track and online. Documenting the journey through the website and social media will not only honor my father’s dream but hopefully inspire others who are trying to find their own way into racing.

From there, who knows? Maybe the path eventually leads to midgets or even sprint cars, if the finances ever line up. But for now, the focus is simple: start where I can, learn as much as possible, and take steady steps toward the vision my dad once had. It’s not about rushing to the top—it’s about building a foundation that lasts, one small step at a time.