Thunder Road Int'l Speedbowl News

Smith Confident About Drive For Diversity

- Justin St. Louis on 27 Oct 2010

PHOTO: Randolph racer Dylan Smith recently attended his second NASCAR Drive For Diversity combine in Virginia. (Justin St. Louis/VMM photo)

(From track press release)

RANDOLPH -- Dylan Smith recently returned from his second NASCAR Drive For Diversity combine at Motor Mile Speedway in Radford, Virginia. The 18 year-old Thunder Road Late Model competitor spent three days last week trying out for the Revolution Racing team that competes in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East and the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series.

Smith, of Randolph, was one of 35 drivers selected from over 200 applicants to attend the seventh annual Drive For Diversity combine. It was the second year in a row he’s attended the combine, which evaluates up-and-coming drivers on driving ability, personality, physical fitness and marketability, among other things. The three days of testing included iRacing simulator races, weight and fitness training, as well as media exercises and on-track testing.

The sophomore Late Model driver at Thunder Road was among the top-eight fastest in the combine iRacing simulator races and was confident in his on-track runs.

"I was more confident this year, knowing what to expect. Last year I was fast but this year I was fast and consistent because I had a better feel for the car," said Smith. His favorite part of the experience was "hanging out with other people that enjoy racing."

Ten of the 35 drivers will be selected for a spot on the 2011 Racing Revolution team. The results will be announced around Thanksgiving.