Spalding Captures Epic Gator Victory, Shifts Focus to Son's Racing Future

Spalding Captures Epic Gator Victory, Shifts Focus to Son's Racing Future

By Michael Anderson

March 5, 2025 at 03:04 PM

Curt Spalding dominated the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals, securing an impressive collection of Gator trophies in an unexpected turn of events. Initially hesitant to make the 1,000-mile journey from Watervilet, MI to Volusia Speedway Park, Spalding hadn't won there since 2020.

Curt Spalding celebrates victory with flag

Curt Spalding celebrates victory with flag

Encouraged by his car owners, Chris and Adam Terry, and his son Tyler, Spalding's decision to compete proved remarkably successful. He captured five Feature win Gator trophies, the Gator Championship Big Gator trophy, and the week-long DIRTcar Nationals Big Gator Championship trophy.

Sprint car racing on dirt track

Sprint car racing on dirt track

The victories hold special significance for Spalding, who has been attending events at the facility since the 1990s. The success follows two years of dedicated program development and strategic sacrifices that finally paid off.

Looking ahead to 2025, Spalding plans to compete in UMP Modified events and select races with the DIRTcar Summit Modified Nationals. He's also focusing on supporting his son Tyler's racing career. The 23-year-old has already shown promise in DIRTcar UMP Modified racing, winning multiple local races in 2024.

Tyler's natural talent for driving, watching, and tuning race cars has impressed his father. This skill was developed under the guidance of mentor Dewayne Ragland, whose influence continues to shape the Spalding racing program's success.

The 2025 DIRTcar Summer Nationals season kicks off at the Brownstown Bullring in Illinois on June 10, with all events available live on DIRTVision.

Related Articles

Previous Articles