Georgia's Austin Smith has committed to pursuing the MD3 Rookie of the Year Award with the World of Outlaws Late Models in 2025. Based in Cedartown, GA, Smith sees this as the perfect opportunity to compete at the national level.

Smith's decision was influenced by the number of races already planned in his region, including events at Swainsboro, Talladega, Florida, and Smoky Mountain. He'll be backed by Shane Clanton and Capital Race Cars, benefiting from both top-tier equipment and the expertise of the 2015 Series champion.

His partnership with Clanton stems from his father's collaboration with the champion last year on the Capital deal. Clanton's extensive experience and knowledge of the sport will be invaluable as Smith adapts to life on the road with the World of Outlaws.

Smith has already shown promise in limited World of Outlaws appearances, qualifying for the Feature at the Prairie Dirt Classic and all three nights of the World of Outlaws World Finals last season. However, he acknowledges the significant challenge ahead, noting that competing against the best drivers consistently requires a different level of preparation.

For 2025, Smith will compete against fellow rookies Ethan Dotson, Daniel Hilsabeck, Jake Timm, and Daniel Adam. While winning the rookie title is a goal, his primary focus is building a foundation for long-term success in the series. He'll be joined on tour by fellow Capital drivers Daniel Hilsabeck and Dennis Erb Jr., providing additional support and collaboration opportunities.

Smith's World of Outlaws journey begins at Volusia Speedway Park's DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals (Jan. 24-25), followed by the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals (Feb. 13-15).

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