06/16/2026
Spotlight #18 Trevor Ridriguez
From his first trip to a race shop as an eight-year-old kid to earning his first main event victory and now chasing Rookie of the Year honors in the Spec Sprints, Trevor's racing journey has been fueled by determination, friendships, and a love for the sport. Here's Trevor's story in his own words:
My racing journey started at just 8 years old when my dadās friend took me to my first race shop. That shop happened to be the legendary shop of Kirk Simpson and Klint Simpson. From that moment on, I was hooked on racing.
At 15 years old, I made my first-ever start at Petaluma Speedway. It was a night Iāll never forget. Starting 14th and driving up to finish 7th in the main event, I earned my rookie flags in my very first race and knew this was where I belonged.
Over the years, I competed in Mini Stocks and spent countless hours helping Chet Wilson, learning valuable lessons both on and off the track. Eventually, I ventured into Micro Sprint racing, where I had the opportunity to race alongside Rob Brown, Savannah Brown, and Kenny Carter. Those years created some of the best memories and most enjoyable experiences of my racing career.
I would also like to give a special thank you to Chet Wilson of Wilson Woodworks, Mini Stock car owner and Spec Sprint co-owner, for his support, guidance, and the opportunities he has provided throughout my racing journey. I'd also like to thank Rob Kaehler for all of his help and support this season. Having people like Chet and Rob in my corner has meant a great deal to me both on and off the track.
After taking a few years away from racing to enjoy other hobbies and life experiences, the passion never faded. In 2026, I returned to racing full-time at Petaluma Speedway, competing in my sprint car and chasing new goals on the track.
Along the way, I also achieved a milestone that every racer dreams aboutāearning my first main event victory in a Mini Stock at Antioch Speedway.
For me, racing is more than a sport. Itās the friendships, the memories, the long nights in the shop, and the people who become family. I love racing, I love the competition, and most importantly, I love my racing family. Every lap, every challenge, and every victory is shared with the people who have supported me throughout this journey.
Trevor Rodriguez
2026 Spec Sprint Rookie of the Year Contender
āLiving the dream one lap at a time, surrounded by the best racing family anyone could ask for.ā