Mini Tyrrell became the youngest driver to ever win a Late Model Stock Car race in America at Shenandoah Speedway on Saturday night.
The 10-year-old crossed the finish line of the Holtzman Oil 75-lap main event in second place, but the first place car of Vincent Campbell failed post-race inspection elevating Tyrrell to the top spot.
After investigating across America, no Late Model authority can recall anyone younger than 12 years old winning a Late Model feature. Michael McGuire of Vinton, VA won a Late Model feature at Orange County Speedway at the age of 12 in 2009.
“I can’t thank everyone involved enough for making this happen”, said Mini Tyrrell. “To be allowed to race at this level is just amazing and I appreciate Sam Beatty having faith in me for doing this as well as Jeff Vaughan for allowing me to compete at his track.’ Mini added, “It’s really amazing.”
Tyrrell has been wheeling a 3100 pound Late Model for less than two full seasons, impressing everyone along the way. From race fans to fellow drivers, the young man exudes words and deeds way behind his tender age.
Prior to his Late Model venture, Tyrrell competed in numerous go-kart venues, then progressing to Arena Mini-Cup races in Richmond, VA with much success.
Tyrrell qualified fourth out of the 13 entrants in the typical Saturday night Late Model feature. He maintained a top five run for most of the race and really had to get up on the wheel during the final few circuits as other drivers such as local track champion and four-time feature winner Brian Purdham added pressure as the checkers approached.
Tyrrell received a heroes welcome from the crowd who were equally impressed by his then second place run. Tyrrell very professionally thanked his crew and sponsors like a seasoned veteran in post-race interviews.
The parents of this 4’6”, 100 pound dynamo, Tim and Tina have provided a path for Mini to progress into NASCAR’s upper leagues as he gains more experience behind the wheel and potential success at other tracks. There have been many private practice sessions and coaches such as veteran Late Model driver Brandon Butler on hand to provide expert advice.
The car that Tyrrell competes in is a typical NASCAR style Late Model prepared by veteran car owner Sam Beatty. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Beatty. “When we first had a special seat designed for him, people were saying you’re crazy to put a kid that young into a 3100 pound race car. We are extremely proud of Mini’s accomplishment and can only look forward to more wins and more success as the years go on.”
Shenandoah Speedway track owner Jeff Vaughan granted permission to the Tyrrell’s with their signatures last year to get things started. “It’s amazing how well this young man can wheel a big race car,” Vaughan said. “I’m proud that this new record was established at our race track and encourage race fans to come out and watch this new talent compete.”
Mini will be entering sixth grade at Mayfield Intermediate School in Manassas, VA next month. And while most classmates will talk about their summer vacations at the beach or camping, Mini will tell his friends about campaigning a Late Model at Shenandoah Speedway and winning a race.
