USSA Season Final Race
My last race of the United States Speed Association season with JK Racing, LLC was straight … literally.
Two laps to go, things were getting heated — racing was tight, everyone was fighting hard for position. I had a real shot at something big last night. Then, out of nowhere, I got hit coming out of turn 2. The impact sent me straight into the wall twice, and before I knew it, my car was on fire.
In that moment, everything goes quiet. I remember thinking, stay calm. My steering wheel wouldn’t come off (thankfully I’m still skinny), but I managed to climb out on my own.
Meanwhile, my parents sprinted to the fence — yelling for help and letting the track officials know my car was still on fire (they seemed to be in another world for a second). Seeing their reaction and realizing how fast it all happened really hit me — that could’ve gone bad, fast.
Now that I’m home, it’s sinking in. I’m sore, got a few bruises, but I’m okay. My safety gear did exactly what it was supposed to do and I’m beyond thankful for that.
Yeah, I’m bummed. That’s not how I wanted my rookie season to end — I had something for them last night. But racing’s unpredictable. One second you’re chasing the win, the next you’re climbing out of a burning car. It’s all part of the ride.
Massive thanks to all my sponsors for believing in me and sticking by me all season. Dive Rescue International - Public Safety, Jack's Donuts of Carmel, The Bin Blaster. Special shoutout to Pitcher Perfect & Yellow Door Realty for being there in person last night — that meant a lot.
To my fellow racers and their families — thank you for checking in and making sure my family and I were okay.
And to Ayrton Houk Racing, BJ Shaw, Kevin Houk , Jason, Anna Lynn and Tyler — we’re not done yet. Thank you for always believing in me, pushing me, and helping me grow every step of the way. We aren’t just a race team — we’re family. You’ve taught me what hard work, respect, and determination really mean. This isn’t the end of the story — just part of the comeback. The fire might’ve ended my night, but it definitely lit something inside me
Mom, Dad, and Annie — thank you for the love, stress, late nights, and all the encouragement. Last night proved how much we all mean to each other. I’m grateful, I’m lucky, and I’m coming back stronger.
None of this is possible without the support of my sponsors — and you, the fans. You’re the ones who keep showing up, cheering loud, and believing in me day in and day out.
Is it April yet?!
