Young Modified Star Yankowski Set for Chili Bowl Debut with Keith Kunz Racing
Alex Yankowski's young but impressive career takes a new turn as he prepares for his debut at the prestigious Chili Bowl in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Following a remarkable 2024 season that included the Fonda Speedway Modified championship, SDS Summerfast title, Freedom 76 victory, and Short Track Super Series South Region championship, Yankowski is ready for this new challenge.
Racer leaning on dirt track car
Yankowski, alongside Mat Williamson, will compete for the renowned Keith Kunz Racing team, with sponsorship from the Ferris Factory Team. While relatively new to midget racing, Yankowski has some experience, having previously raced at Action Track USA and Path Valley. Recently, he demonstrated his adaptability by winning at Millbridge in Brian Carber's car.
The opportunity arose through a series of phone calls, ultimately connecting with Dave Dombrowski of Wilwood Brakes, who helped facilitate the connection with Pete Willoughby of KKR. The Ferris partnership, a New York-based lawn mower manufacturer, proved crucial in making this opportunity possible.
Despite the pressure of driving for an elite team like Keith Kunz Racing, Yankowski maintains a positive outlook: "I really just want to enjoy the opportunity that I have because you never know if I will have this again in my life." He'll be supported by his Modified crew chief Kevin Bates, who will assist the KKR team on the Ferris Factory Team No. 84Y.
Following the Chili Bowl, Yankowski will return to his Modified racing schedule, likely similar to his successful 2024 season that saw him compete in 85 races, achieving 6 wins and 44 top-five finishes. He joins a select group of Modified drivers who have competed in the Chili Bowl, including Tim McCreadie, Stewart Friesen, Billy Pauch Jr., and Timmy Buckwalter.