We at InsideDirtRacing.com recognize the contributions made to the sport of dirt racing by those who race in the support classes each week at our local tracks. Their work, dedication and sacrifice are just as great as those who compete in the Late Model divisions. As a result, we hope to shine a spotlight on one of those unsung heroes each week of this season by having them answer eight questions as well as provide other information.
This week’s driver is Robbie Sands
Robbie Sands
Robbie Sands has been involved in racing for a number of years and has seen a lot during his time in the sport. The 49-year-old Knoxville resident races regularly in the Classics division at the Tazewell Speedway.
“This is definitely an exciting place,” he said of the high-banked track. “We’ve raced all over the country and this is by far the most intimidating because it’s so fast. If there’s a wreck, you’re not going to miss it.”
1. How long have you been in racing?
“I started when I was 15, so about 34 years. I started out in Modified Street and went all the way to Super Late Models. I ran supers for about seven or eight years then took a year off and came back with this thing. I’ve been running this thing for about ten years.”
2. Why the Classics class?
“The way we got into it was my car owner bought it for himself then he wrecked and conned me into to driving it and it grew from there.”
3. The best thing about being a race car driver is____.
“Adrenaline. It was adrenaline and girls when I was younger and now it’s just adrenaline.”
4. Your best moment in racing came when ____.
“I’ve been real fortunate. I’ve had a bunch. I guess when we won the Hangover race at 411 three years in a row.”
5. My biggest dream in racing would be _____.
“I’ve not got a lot of dreams left so I just want to have fun and not get hurt.”
6. What other racer do you admire?
“My son, Philip(Thompson) and Billy Ogle. He and I grew up together.”
7. What’s your favorite thing to do away from the track?
“Spend time with my wife and my kids and my grandkids.”
8. If I wasn’t racing I would be ____.
“Bored, extremely bored.”
