DIRTcar Star Chris Raabe to Make NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Debut This Weekend

Chris Raabe has won 99 open-wheel Modified events on dirt tracks, but he will step out of that comfort zone and on to the asphalt of Barrie (Ont.) Speedway to climb behind the wheel of a NASCAR Canadian Tire Series car for the first time in the Wild Wing 300 presented by Independent Electric.

The very accomplished 20-year-old out of Napanee, Ont., got his start in racing at the age of six in go-karts in which he compiled 231 victories and 23 championships in various levels and regions. Once he moved on to the dirt track, the success continued. At 14, he became the youngest feature winner in the DIRTcar Sportsman Modified division followed by a track championship at Brockville (Ont.) Speedway at the age of 15 – another division record. He was practically unbeatable in 2008 and 2009 as he collected back-to-back Mr. DIRTcar Sportsman Modified titles.

While it is not his first time in a full-bodied stock car on asphalt, the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series is a place he has been looking forward to in which to compete.

“I’ve been trying to get to this level for years,” he said. “So this is very exciting for me and to be able to ride alongside other drivers of this caliber is a great opportunity for me to learn and up my game.”

This opportunity comes from former NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champion and 2011 points leader Scott Steckly and the 22 Racing Team. Raabe appreciates the chance and recognizes the importance of developing young racing talent as he learns from Steckly and teammate Mark Dilley, also a series veteran.

“Development programs like this are the best way to grow young talent,” said Raabe. “I’m a lucky guy to be able to work with two great mentors and learn from their experience. The best thing for me to have the chance to get out there, learn and improve.”

When he climbs behind the wheel of his No. 01 Canadian Tire/MotoMaster/Sylvania Dodge at Barrie Speedway, Raabe will be ready to compete and is confident in the practice time he has spent in the car.

“It’s got four wheels and a steering wheel so I got comfortable quickly,” he said. “My goal is to run as many laps as I can and come out with the best time I can.”

Find out more about Chris Raabe by going to his website at www.chrisraabe.com