Dad#17

WHITESELL RACING #17 OSW closes down. Whitesell Racing officially closes the doors. My son Justin and I started in the venture of Sprint Car racing with a push from a well-known driver. That was 3 1/2 years ago. At the time it was called the Limited Sprints. This class matured and Mercer Raceway gave this class a shot in the arm by bring 5.3L and 305 engines under a very well-constructed set of rules. Some may argue this point. Over the 3 1/2 years we were involved, I watched my son become a contender weekly. And yes a winner. He accomplished so much and learned so much. The hardest news I ever broke to him is that I was shutting the team down and selling out. The reasons will remain personal as that is just what it is. I want to thank my son for the memories he gave me. Ones I will never forget as long as I live. From the first win, to his last race. Making 410 shows and a 360 show with an underpowered motor, but you did it and finished strong. I missed one race during this 3 1/2 years and he won that night at Sportsman Speedway this year. But the phone call was like I was there with him. I know Justin wants to continue his racing career and I support him 100%. I would love to see a team needing a driver to give him a shot. I promise you he will work hard, drive hard and bring it home with nothing left on the track. He is a book full of knowledge with these cars and never gave up on wanting to learn more. Many nights he was in the garage working on cars when I was just dead tired. He would just say, “It needs to be done and be ready”. And never a dirty car at the track. There are so many people to thank. First, all the drivers in the OSW class. You guys are just good people. To Guy Griffin, he started us out and made many trips to my house helping us out. I will forever be thankful to you and Stacy. And to his crew. Mike Kekich you gave Justin the tools needed in the car and out of the car. You my friend took him to the next level. I would listen to the two of you speaking a language I never really understood. Mike and Sue Smith. Mike your one hell of an engine guy. Always there when we needed you. Sue the support is un measureable. And to the entire 5K team. All of you are family. Jimmy Morse, you are so fun to be around. Nug and Jeff, always at the ready when there was a need. There are so many more. Bob Anderson and family, Mike Lutz, Gary Edwards, Jason S, Len and crew, Dennis and his giant Jay. The Mattis’s. And to the tracks that supported this class. I am sorry if I missed anyone…. But there is two special people who I really need to thank. Uncle Bob, you have forgotten more than most will ever know. Thank you for being there and being a friend. Chaplain Bill, your words of support and praying with us weekly at the track. Your handshake, your smile and love of the lord. I now have a bit more understanding of my relationship with god because of you. Justin, my son first, the driver of the #17 OSW second. I love you my son, as all fathers know what I am saying here. There is a bond we shared at the track. Mostly good, a few potholes. But know I was always your biggest supporter. Again, there is a hell of a driver needing a ride, a chance. Don’t let him get away without a try. Just sit and talk with him and you will be impressed. Give him a call at 330-507-0862.