Visalia, California native Jett Barnes, 15, made a splash on the high‑speed oval at Sheridan Speedway on Sunday, earning a historic win in the American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) National Tour stop. Barnes, who has been racing for a decade and is in his first year behind a sprint‑car wheel, posted a blistering qualifying lap of 13.787 seconds – an estimated 99 mph on the frontstretch – establishing a new track record.
Starting from the outside pole position, Barnes led the 25‑lap feature with poise beyond his years. He navigated the technical layout with a series of controlled slides, lapping several competitors and ultimately crossing the finish line first after only one caution period. The victory marks his third ASCS National Tour start and makes him the second‑youngest feature winner in the series’ history.
Local pride and future prospects
“The track was awesome and technical,” Barnes said after the race, reflecting the confidence that has driven his rapid ascent in sprint‑car racing. His performance not only highlights his personal talent but also brings attention to the growing pipeline of young drivers emerging from smaller communities across the West.
Sheridan Speedway, a staple of Wyoming motorsports, has long been a proving ground for up‑and‑coming racers. The venue’s fast‑straightaways and tight turns test both driver skill and car setup, making Barnes’s record‑setting lap a notable achievement for a teenager still learning the nuances of sprint‑car dynamics.
Community response
Fans and fellow competitors praised Barnes’s composure and speed. Local racing enthusiast Mark Daniels noted, “Seeing a 15‑year‑old set a track record and win the feature is a testament to his dedication and the support he’s gotten from his family and team.” The win also underscores the importance of youth development programs in motorsports, which encourage early involvement and mentorship.
Barnes’s victory adds to the excitement surrounding the ASCS National Tour, a series that travels across the United States showcasing top sprint‑car talent. As the tour continues, Barnes will look to build on his momentum, aiming for more wins and further record‑breaking performances.
What’s next for the young champion?
With the season still unfolding, Barnes and his team plan to focus on refining car setup for upcoming events while balancing his academic responsibilities back in Visalia. “I’m just grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to see what the rest of the season holds,” Barnes said.
The Sheridan community celebrated the win with a post‑race gathering, highlighting the local pride that comes from hosting a national‑level racing event. As the ASCS continues to draw fans from across the region, Barnes’s achievement serves as a reminder that talent knows no age limit.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
