In 1998, a humble structure on the property of Dale Earnhardt Inc. was designated to manage marketing and sponsorship for Dale Earnhardt Jr. From this modest beginning with a single employee, JR Motorsports has become a major force in NASCAR .
Over the years, JR Motorsports has put young drivers such as William Byron, Josh Berry and Carson Kvapil in the spotlight. These talents have come through the Late Model program, run by Dale Earnhardt Jr and his sister, Kelly Earnhardt Miller. In a recent interview with NASCAR insider Bob Pockrass, Josh Berry reflected on the invaluable support he received from Dale Jr, which has been instrumental in earning him a spot at Stewart-Haas Racing, replacing the retiring Kevin Harvick.
Josh Berry’s Journey and Appreciation
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Josh Berry’s path to the Cup Series is full of ups and downs; will become a rare 33-year-old rookie in the Cup Series in 2024. Just a year ago, he landed a two-year deal with Stewart-Haas Racing to replace the retiring Kevin Harvick, making him a 33-year-old rookie. rare in the Cup Series. And now Berry is once again left without a team for 2025.
Dale Earnhardt Jr has been a loyal supporter of Berry, who made a name for himself as a long-time late model racer, winning five Xfinity races in 55 starts during 2021-22. His rise has inspired many local runners, proving that determination and talent can lead to success.
Reflecting on his experience, Josh Berry expressed his deep gratitude toward Dale Jr. “He gave me a life-changing opportunity to move to North Carolina and drive his late models,” Berry shared. “To go through that and then work together and race with him as much as I did means a lot to have his support. Obviously, he’s done a lot for me, but he’s also been a great friend.” Berry highlighted how Dale Jr.’s support extended beyond the racetrack, with frequent check-ins and encouragement during tough times.
The driver of number 4 commented: “When things get tough, you find out a lot about people and the kind of people they are. Dealing with everything he’s going through, he doesn’t hesitate to come up to me and ask me how I am, if I need help or whatever, and that really shows the character he has.” So, the next time you face any problems, you know who’s there to help you!
via Getty
JOLIET, IL – SEPTEMBER 16: Josh Berry, driver of the #71 American Club/RaceTrac Chevrolet, stands on the grid during qualifying for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series American Ethanol E15 225 at Chicagoland Speedway on September 16, 2016 in Joliet, Illinois. . (Photo by Sarah Crabill//Keynote USA/Getty Images)
Despite some initial challenges, Josh Berry’s transition to Stewart-Haas Racing has proven his resilience. The 2024 season started off rough, but Berry managed to secure four top-10 finishes in the last nine races, moving up to 19th in the Cup standings. As Berry looks to the future, the lessons and relationships he has built will no doubt play a role. an important role in his career. Does that mean he can go back to JRM?
While Josh Berry’s story is inspiring, another rising star and Cup rookie under the JR Motorsports umbrella is making waves in the NASCAR Xfinity Series: Carson Kvapil. In a thrilling race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Kvapil finished in the top 5 for the third time in just four Xfinity starts. His stellar performance captured the hearts of both fans and motorsport personalities.
The rapid rise of Carson Kvapil
Carson Kvapil, of Mooresville, North Carolina, continues his family’s sporting legacy as the son of former Cup driver Travis Kvapil. Following in his father’s footsteps, Carson launched his career in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series, where he posted an impressive second-place finish at Kansas Speedway. Since his NXS debut this year in Martinsville, the young rookie hasn’t looked back.
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Carson’s top-five finish at NHMS came in a bit of a peculiar way. Starting from 38th place, Kvapil made his way through the field and found himself in last position with a quarter of the race remaining. Fortunately, the yellow flags fell in his direction, allowing him to restart on the front row with 26 laps to go. Although Kvapil returned to fifth place, his ability to maintain his composure during a late-race restart was notable. This performance, including his 24 laps led, shows why Dale Jr continues to believe in him.
Dale Earnhardt Jr, who has been a mentor to the rookie, had previously commented: “Our Late Model program at JR Motorsports has been a big part of the success we have had as a company. “We are excited to be able to provide Carson with the opportunity to take the next step in his career.” In fact, this is a golden opportunity for Carson; If he continues to take advantage of the way he is doing now, he will surely end up in the 2025 Cup Series. The rookie just needs to keep his humility.
Kvapil expresses his gratitude towards JRM in his post-match interview. He stated: “We were in a very good position there with 20 races to go and probably got third place, but I can’t thank Andrew Overstreet, the whole JRM team and Clarence and Chevrolet for everything they do. Let’s go for the next one.” With his down-to-earth attitude and performance, the rookie has left a modest impression in the hearts of the racing community. Perhaps it is his association with Dale Jr that has given Kvapil this attitude.
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Dale Jr.’s effort is commendable. If it weren’t for JR Motorsports, many of the talents we know now might become extinct or go unnoticed. Who do you think is the best talent JR Motorsports has ever produced? Don’t forget to share your thoughts!
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