Driver of the Oscar Mike Foundation #12 Super Late Model
How did you get into racing?
My dad started racing at Lake Geneva when I was about 10 and I was quickly drawn in. Saturdays at the racetrack were some of my best childhood memories. At 14 I began driving Allison Legacy cars at tracks around the Midwest. Towards the end of high school, it was a limited late model. I actually stopped racing for 10+ years and just came back to the sport a few seasons ago with the Super Late Model.
What do you like about Slinger Super Speedway?
As a driver, there isn’t a comparable track. The high banking allows you to be aggressive but also makes the competition very tough. As a fan, it’s still a thrill to watch a late model feature roll to the green and the side-by-side racing is second to none.
How did you get involved with the Oscar Mike Foundation?
I was introduced to founder (Noah Currier) by friend and OM Chief of Staff (Karole Sellers). After hearing the mission, I knew I wanted to help. The Oscar Mike Foundation keeps injured Veterans ON-THE-MOVE through apparel sales and donations. We thought the race car would be a great way to bring awareness and get more people involved. It’s been a great partnership.
Who do you need to thank?
Getting back into racing has been difficult. The technology and equipment is a lot to absorb. Kelly Bires has put in an enormous amount of time and energy in helping me learn and improve. A lot of talented people help make the car run: Andy Jones, Mitch Garfield, Jason Stark, Matthew Kossow, Keith Tolf, Brian Wesley, the Apel empire.
What is your real job?
Managing Evolve, an experiential marketing production company. We produce large events for the best marketing agencies in the world and some amazing brands. You can experience our work at major music festivals, sporting events, NASCAR races, etc. We started the business in my house garage and have now operated in 14 countries with an incredible team.
Where is the most interesting place you have been (non-racing)?
Tough decision, maybe Israel? I enjoy traveling and work provides some great opportunities to hop around the world but I’ve really just started stretching my legs.
How did you get your car number (#12)?
My dad was #2 so we just tweaked it a bit.
What TV show(s) are you into?
More podcasts and reading than TV. On my Itunes this week: NPR How I Built This, Masters of Scale, Dale Jr Download.
What is your favorite food? Any particular place you like best to get it from?
I don’t miss many meals. Tapas in Spain, Fried chicken at the Screen Door in Portland, Tacos at Superica in Atlanta, or a dozen old fashioneds anywhere in Wisconsin.
Which Slinger driver (past or present) do you respect the most?
The teams that race every Sunday night religiously. It takes a lot of energy and determination to keep a race car coming back every week. They keep the sport alive and the track open and I’m grateful. When we started racing at Slinger, Steve (Apel) and team were very welcoming. I’ve always appreciated that and respect them on and off track.