In the minutes leading up to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race, driver Tanner Gray, exuding the calm confidence of a seasoned professional, sits casually in his pit area at Phoenix Raceway. At 24, he bears a striking resemblance to Jimmie Johnson and possesses a wisdom and humility that set him apart.
Gray’s journey to NASCAR was unique. He had achieved success in NHRA drag racing, winning a Pro Stock championship at the age of 19. However, transitioning to NASCAR was a different challenge. Alongside his younger brother Taylor, he embraced a new path in circle-track racing, leaving their drag racing roots behind.
The Gray brothers, now teammates for Toyota-supported Tricon Garage, have found their niche in NASCAR, distancing themselves from the straight-line sport that once consumed their family. Despite their drag racing background, they’ve comfortably settled into the world of NASCAR, focusing entirely on their racing endeavors.
Tanner Gray’s entry into NASCAR wasn’t without its challenges. Initially feeling like the new kid at school, he navigated the uncertainties of the NASCAR ladder series. However, with time, he built strong relationships within the NASCAR community, shedding his initial insecurities.
Despite a brief return to NHRA for a cameo appearance, Tanner Gray found himself more at ease in NASCAR. While drag racing had once come naturally to him, NASCAR presented a learning curve. Nevertheless, Gray is determined to excel in his new career. He acknowledges the need for constant improvement and the importance of having the right people around him.
Reflecting on the current Truck season, Gray admits to ups and downs but remains optimistic about the future. He values the opportunity to race alongside his brother in the same series, finding excitement in their shared journey.
Taylor Gray, equally comfortable in his NASCAR pursuits, seamlessly integrated himself into the Torrence camp, embracing the challenges and occasional skepticism from his peers.
The Gray family’s drag racing legacy has transformed into a mere footnote as they fully embrace their NASCAR endeavors. With a clear focus on their NASCAR careers, the Grays have found their home in the world of circle-track racing, leaving their drag racing past behind.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Are Taylor Gray and Tanner Gray related?
Tanner Gray, a 15-year-old NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver, is currently competing against his younger brother Taylor Gray, who is 17 years old. Interestingly, Taylor, who is now 18, started maintaining superchargers for NHRA Top Fuel champion Steve Torrence at the young age of 12. He even expressed his desire to race an 11,000-horsepower dragster someday. It’s exciting to see the Gray brothers’ passion for racing and their dedication to the sport at such a young age.
Who does Taylor Gray race for?
Meet Taylor Gray, a talented American stock car racing driver born on March 25, 2005. He currently competes full-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, where he drives the No. 17 Toyota Tundra for Tricon Garage. Additionally, he also participates part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 19 Toyota Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing. With his impressive skills and dedication to the sport, Taylor is definitely a driver to watch out for in the racing world.
