About this episode
Drake Troutman, a rising star in dirt racing, shares his journey from childhood go-karting to competing in the World of Outlaws series at just 20 years old. He discusses the unique aspects of dirt racing, emphasizing its interactive nature and the hands-on work required to maintain competitive cars. Drake reflects on the challenges he faced, including the loss of his father, and how that motivates him to succeed. He also highlights the importance of teamwork and mentorship in his career, while expressing gratitude for the opportunities he's received.
Drake Troutman, driver for the Team 22 race team owned by G.R. Smith (known as the equivalent of Hendrick Motorsports in dirt racing), is one of the hottest shoes in dirt racing running over 140 races in the 2025 season including the Real American Beer World of Outlaws Late Model Series and numerous other dirt series around the country. Drake comes off a winner this past weekend landing in victory lane winning the Real American Beer World of Outlaws Late Model Series event at I-55 Speedway in Pevely, MO, and currently sits 4th in points. In 2024, Drake had 21 wins in 9 different states in over 120 events all across the country. At 20 years old, Drake knows that it takes a certain kind of person in this game of dirt racing. He knows that his life consists of working on the car and racing the car – that's it. It is endless hours to make sure your race car is as good as it can be, traveling up and down the road, having family and friends that support you, and to have a group of amazing sponsors and a team owner who is dedicated to providing an opportunity of a lifetime.
World of Outlaws Late Model Series
"...I watched you let this past weekend run the real American beer world of outlaws late model series at I-55 Speedway in Peevely, Missouri and man you hammered down..."
The World of Outlaws Late Model Series is a top dirt racing series in the U.S. where drivers compete in specially designed cars on dirt tracks. It's known for exciting races and talented drivers.
The World of Outlaws Late Model Series is a premier dirt late model racing series in the United States, featuring some of the best drivers and teams in the sport. It showcases high-performance vehicles racing on dirt tracks, emphasizing skill and strategy.
dirt racing
"...for me dirt racing is part of that still that raw form of racing you know there's not a lot of raw form of racing left..."
Dirt racing is a type of motorsport where cars race on dirt tracks instead of paved roads. It can be more challenging due to the uneven surface and changing conditions.
Dirt racing involves racing on unpaved surfaces, which can include dirt tracks, and is known for its raw and unfiltered racing experience. It contrasts with asphalt racing, where the surface is smoother and more predictable.
Formula 1
"...with NASCAR and NHRE and IndyCar and F1 and all those things they..."
Formula 1 is a top-level car racing series where very fast cars compete on special tracks. The cars are built with the latest technology to go as fast as possible.
Formula 1 (F1) is the highest class of single-seater auto racing, known for its advanced technology, speed, and prestigious races held worldwide. F1 cars are designed for maximum performance on paved circuits.
NASCAR
"...they understand that with NASCAR and NHRE and IndyCar and F1 and all those things they..."
NASCAR is a type of car racing that happens mostly on oval tracks. The cars used are specially built and look like regular cars, but they are designed for speed and safety.
NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport organization in the United States known for its stock car racing series. It features cars that are modified versions of production vehicles and races are held on oval tracks.
IndyCar
"...with NASCAR and NHRE and IndyCar and F1 and all those things they..."
IndyCar is a racing series where cars have open wheels and are designed for speed. They race on different types of tracks, including circular ones and those with turns.
IndyCar is a type of open-wheel car racing that features single-seat cars that race on a variety of tracks, including ovals and road courses. The series is known for its high speeds and competitive nature.
setup
"...try to hit your setup right every night and even just then in the car itself driving it..."
Setup is how you adjust a race car to make it perform better on the track. It involves changing things like how high the car sits and how the tires are inflated to get the best results.
In racing, 'setup' refers to the adjustments made to a car's suspension, aerodynamics, and other components to optimize performance for a specific track or conditions. This can include changes to tire pressure, ride height, and weight distribution.
packer
"...as far down the setup stuff as a 16th inch packer in the right front just to keep from..."
A packer is a small piece that helps adjust how high or low a car sits. It can make a big difference in how the car drives during a race.
A 'packer' is a small spacer used in racing to adjust the ride height of a car's suspension. By adding or removing packers, teams can fine-tune how the car sits and handles on the track.
fine tuning
"...it's really really a lot of fine tuning that goes into it and the way that you put them together..."
Fine tuning means making small adjustments to a car to help it perform better. This can involve changing things like how the tires are set up or how the suspension works.
Fine tuning refers to the precise adjustments made to a vehicle's setup to optimize its performance. This can include adjustments to suspension settings, tire pressures, and other components to achieve the best handling and speed.
banking
"...with a little bit of banking sometimes and sometimes it just flat as can be..."
Banking is when the sides of a racetrack are sloped or tilted. This helps cars go faster around corners because it helps keep them stable while turning.
Banking in racing refers to the angle of the track's surface, particularly in turns. A banked turn allows cars to maintain higher speeds while cornering, as the incline helps counteract the forces acting on the vehicle.
Hendrick Motorsports
"...the equivalent of Hendrick Motorsports in dirt racing is one of the hottest shoes on dirt running over 140 races..."
Hendrick Motorsports is a famous racing team in NASCAR, known for winning many races and championships. They have several cars and drivers that compete at a high level.
Hendrick Motorsports is a prominent American professional stock car racing team that competes in the NASCAR Cup Series. Known for its success and multiple championships, it is one of the most recognized teams in the sport.
kart racing
"...we talked a little bit more about how you got involved in kart racing and then modified in your early years. How did this go to where you ended up with team 22..."
Kart racing is a type of racing that uses small go-kart vehicles. It's a popular way for new drivers to learn how to race before moving on to bigger cars.
Kart racing is a form of motorsport where participants race small, open-wheel vehicles called karts. It's often seen as an entry point for many professional drivers, as it helps develop essential racing skills.
Lucas Oil series
"...So I kind of had a game plan last year that I wanted to go and race the Lucas Oil series and just try to do the best..."
The Lucas Oil series is a set of racing events that are sponsored by a company called Lucas Oil. It includes different types of races and is a place where many drivers compete to show their talent.
The Lucas Oil series refers to a series of motorsport events sponsored by Lucas Oil Products, featuring various types of racing, including dirt track racing. It is known for its competitive fields and is a popular platform for drivers to showcase their skills.
Ford Ranger
"...I would say that we're probably about like a Ford Ranger that's like not just me but like my whole team l..."
The Ford Ranger is a type of truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for both work and fun activities. It's known for being tough and dependable, which is why many people like to use it for different purposes.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. It has a strong reputation for being reliable and is often favored for both work and recreational use, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts.
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