Kasey Kahne Racing: The accomplishments of Steve Kinser in Sprint Car racing are rarely touched, considering his 20 World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car championships and nearly 700 Feature victories. However, Kasey Kahne managed to equal Kinser in a significant category last week.
Brad Sweet secured his fifth consecutive title with The Greatest Show on Dirt in grand fashion by winning the final race of the 2023 season, all achieved under the Kasey Kahne Racing banner. Adding in the championship with Daryn Pittman in 2013, Kahne now boasts six titles as an owner, tying him for the third most with “The King.”
Kinser collected 14 of his championships while driving for Karl Kinser and added six more after starting his own team. Karl leads the list with 16 titles, and Tony Stewart owns the second most with nine.
Kahne expressed his satisfaction with being part of anything associated with Steve Kinser, acknowledging the Sprint Car legend’s numerous championships. Reflecting on the achievement, Kahne stated, “To be tied for third is great.”
Kahne Racing’s journey since entering World of Outlaws races in 2005 has been lengthy, finally claiming its first championship in 2013. Over time, Kahne has built an organization capable of maintaining a championship pedigree.
Emphasizing the importance of having the right people in the right places, Kahne credited the crew, including Eric Prutzman, Joe Mooney, and Andrew Bowman, for their pivotal role in securing the 2023 title. Despite Mooney’s departure, Tye Wolfgang seamlessly filled the car chief void.
“To see what the #49 has done the last five (years) is pretty incredible,” Kahne said. “The crew chief standpoint, Eric Prutzman and his preparation and mindset, work ethic, everything that he brings to the team sets up for Tye Wolfgang and Andrew Bowman. Just how they attack every race throughout the entire season is pretty incredible with their performance and how put together the team and cars are.”
Kahne, who transitioned to a full-time Sprint Car driver, has been able to witness his team’s success up close in recent years. He spoke about how he initially followed races through announcements and DIRTVision but has now become a more integral part of the team, supporting them in person.
Expressing gratitude for being part of Sprint Car racing, Kahne acknowledged his close connection with the team members and his desire to contribute to the success of KKR. His unwavering dedication has placed him among the most impactful figures in Series history, standing alongside Steve Kinser with six owner championships.
The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series is set to kick off its 2024 season at Volusia Speedway Park during the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals from Feb. 8-10, 2024.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Why did Kasey Kahne stop racing in NASCAR?
Unfortunately, Kahne’s racing journey was cut short due to medical reasons. He was unable to continue racing due to heat exhaustion and body temperature concerns.
Is Kasey Kahne Racing in 2023?
Kasey Kahne is gearing up for a comeback in the World of Outlaws after being out of action for over half of his rookie season. The seasoned driver is set to take on the full 80+ race schedule in 2023, driving the No. 9 Kasey Kahne Racing (KKR) car. Kahne will be joined by Brad Sweet, a four-time defending champion who has won all his titles with Kahne’s team. With these two talented drivers on board, KKR is poised to make a strong showing in the upcoming season.
Did Kasey Kahne ever win a NASCAR race?
In 2006, Kahne clinched his maiden triumph in one of NASCAR’s most prestigious races – the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. This endurance-themed event was a true test of Kahne’s skills, and he emerged victorious. It’s no surprise that Kahne holds the North Carolina oval in high regard, as it remains one of his favorite tracks to this day.
Who has driven for Kasey Kahne racing?
From 2006 to 2012, Joey Saldana was the full-time driver of Sprint Car No. 9. Following his tenure, Daryn Pittman took over and won the championship in 2013. James McFadden then took the wheel from 2019 to 2021. Currently, team owner Kasey Kahne is driving the No. 9 car.