Matthew Davey's family support is what fuels his drive to compete against the best grassroots racers in the county at the Bojangles' Summer Shootout Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway. For the 15-year-old Bandolero driver, racing has become more than a hobby; it has become a way for him to express his true identity.
Davey began competing in go-karts 11 years ago in Arizona. His family soon realized in order for Matthew to pursue his NASCAR dreams, they needed to relocate. With a leap of faith, they moved to Mooresville, North Carolina, getting him one step closer to his aspiration.
"When I came to North Carolina, I was introduced to Bandoleros. Deciding it was time to transition out of the go-karts, my family worked hard to get me into my first Bandolero," said Davey.
Matthew started racing his Bandolero at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 2013. "My first Summer Shootout Season was a little tough, but I have learned a lot since then," said Davey. "I have started learning from my mistakes, watching other drivers and always asking questions."
Davey is a part of the Outlaw Division, which includes drivers 12 years of age and older. During Round 2 of the Bojangles' Summer Shootout Series, the ambitious-yet-humble teenager took home his first division win, which revealed a whole new level of confidence for him.
"My self-confidence has been challenged in school by my non-racing peers, but racing has helped to turn those challenges into positives," said Davey.
Like most teenagers who struggle to find their own identity, racing has become a way Davey can express himself.
"My first win was the greatest moment of my life. It feels so rewarding to have people recognize my name," said Davey. "The following day, I saw my picture in the paper and received many congratulatory texts and phone calls. It was amazing. I am so appreciative of my fans' support and encouragement.
Davey stressed the importance of keeping his focus during races. He leaves everything off the track and keeps his mind in the moment. "I have learned a lot from the Summer Shootout Series, but the most important takeaway is to stay focused and learn from your mistakes," said Davey, who watches and studies the recap races every week.
The Bojangles' Summer Shootout action takes place on the frontstretch quarter mile, just inside the famous 1.5-mile superspeedway. "We have this exciting opportunity to race on the big boy track and nothing can compare," said Davey. "This year, I am going hard for the championship. I want it not just for myself, but I want that championship for my family. They have put so much hard work into getting me here; I want to make it all worth it."
The Bojangles' Summer Shootout continues at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Tuesday, June 30, with the Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza. Fans will see the first fireworks of the season and plenty of fireworks on the track, as racers battle for the win at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The Tuesday night spectacular will highlight the very best Legend Car and Bandolero racers and feature a Champ Truck display, as fans kick off their Fourth of July holiday at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Tickets are only $8 for adults and free for kids 13 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or in advance by calling 800-455-FANS or online at charlottemotorspeedway.com. Fans can also check local Bojangles' locations for a $2 off coupon.
In addition to the weekly highlight shows on MAVtv, fans can watch live action through a pay-per-view via Performance Racing Network and Speed51.com for just $14.99 per night. For more details or to purchase a pay-per-view subscription for the Bojangles' Summer Shootout, visit www.speed51.com/watch-the-2015-bojangles-summer-shootout/.
For more information on the Bojangles' Summer Shootout Series, call the Charlotte Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-800-455-FANS (3267) or visit charlottemotorspeedway.com. Connect with Charlotte Motor Speedway on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or get all the latest news and information with the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.
