Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, has thrown down the gauntlet of praise for a rising star in the racing world: 18-year-old Ryan Timms. This young phenom has taken the dirt racing scene by storm, and Larson is not holding back in his admiration. “He’s been killing it this year,” Larson declared on the Stacking Pennies podcast, marveling at Timms’ meteoric rise and his astounding victory at the Knoxville Nationals, where he became the youngest winner since the legendary Kenny Weld in 1964.
Timms’ triumph at Knoxville, which netted him a staggering $190,000, is just the tip of the iceberg. Larson noted the impressive performance of Timms’ team, stating, “Their car is really, really good too. That was awesome to see him.” The confidence and preparation displayed by Timms and his crew are indicative of a new generation of racers ready to shake up the sport.
What’s particularly fascinating about Timms is his unique trajectory in the racing world. Unlike many young drivers who follow in their fathers’ footsteps, Timms has carved out his own path. He initially gravitated toward Late Model racing, calling them “way cooler” in his youth. However, once he got behind the wheel of junior sprints at just eight years old, his passion for open-wheel racing ignited. It didn’t take long for him to establish himself as a serious contender, clinching the junior sprint title at the prestigious Tulsa Shootout by 2017.
With the financial rewards and personal fulfillment that sprint car racing offers, the question looms: will Timms ever set his sights on NASCAR? While Larson suggested that the monetary allure of dirt racing might keep him away from stock cars, the thought of a talent like Timms making the leap to NASCAR is a tantalizing prospect for fans and pundits alike.
As this young driver continues to dominate the dirt tracks, one thing is clear: Ryan Timms is not just a name to watch; he’s a force to be reckoned with. The future of racing may very well be in his hands, and for now, dirt is where his heart—and his remarkable talent—lies.