McGhee Switches Gears


McGhee Switches Gears

Christian McGhee, winner of the August 2nd NASCAR Whelen Late Model event at Irwindale Speedway, is switching gears to prepare for the upcoming Spears SRL Southwest Tour “51 Fifty Energy Drink 100” race being held on August 16, 2014.

The race is being run at Irwindale Speedway, a racetrack that has seen Christian cut his teeth beginning at age nine. He began racing in the Bandolero series, and after winning the championship in 2011, he moved into a Legend car the following year. The 2013 racing season was highlighted by winning Rookie of the Year in the Irwindale Race Truck Series. He is currently pulling double duty running in the Truck Series and as a rookie in the Late Model class for 2014.

The Claremont High School Junior, who turned 16 last month, discussed his excitement to have been given the opportunity to run in the SRL Series. “I’m very thankful for the opportunities that have been given to me and the sacrifices made by all, including my Dad, my sister Michelle and my crew chief, RJ Johnson.”

Christian comes into this event with some pretty impressive credentials for a rookie. Since the start of the Late Model season, he has earned eight top 5s, including three podium finishes and one win. He currently sits third in the championship hunt. He is also fighting a tough championship battle in the Irwindale Race Truck Series in which he currently sits second.

Driving the Jackson Race Cars prepared #71 SRL Southwest Tour car is kind of a coming home for the McGhee Family, as Dave and Tony Jackson prepped and crewed the # 71 Super Late Model and #77 Late Model that Nick Joanides won championships with while driving for Loyd McGhee. Joanides will serve as Christian’s spotter and driver coach for the SRL event.

The supporting cast of sponsors include Pro-Cast Products, J & M Racing, Western Concrete Pumping, Industry Lift, Mr. Crane, Vereco, Eagle Transportation, Anthony Rosas Painting and Millenium Reinforcing.