Kevin Harvick reacts after losing race to son in a dramatic showdown at Kern Raceway, where 12-year-old Keelan Harvick claimed victory. The event, held in Bakersfield, brought a compelling twist for the motor racing community as both father and son each took honors during the intense competition.
A Dramatic Night at Kern Raceway
On race night, Keelan Harvick started from pole position, while Kevin Harvick made his presence felt by winning the first half of the hard-fought 150-lap event. Things changed dramatically in the second half, as a heated battle for the lead with Jacob Gomes erupted into a multi-car crash. According to the interview featured by Harvick Happy Hour, Kevin recounted the crash, describing close racing, contact, and seeing Jacob Gomes lose control, which resulted in several top drivers being caught in the incident.
Keelan Harvick skillfully maneuvered his car through the chaos, capitalizing on the wreck to take the lead. As a crowd of motorsport fans, eager to see Kevin Harvick in action in his hometown of Bakersfield, watched events unfold, it was Keelan who emerged as the star. The race‘s unpredictable outcome left a strong impression on spectators and participants alike.
“Here comes the little man, cruising right through the wreck, and Keelan wound up with the lead right there, and wound up going on to win the race.”
—Kevin Harvick
Kevin Harvick Shares His Perspective on the Finish
Kevin Harvick spoke candidly after the race, making it clear that the chaos was a result of intense competition rather than intent. He walked through the incident frame by frame in post-race analysis, stressing that three cars were driven aggressively, and the resulting accident shaped the outcome. The seasoned driver also highlighted the unique significance of the race being held in Bakersfield, a place close to his heart.
The crowd that packed the stands to see Kevin ended up watching Keelan seize the moment and claim a memorable win, illustrating the unpredictable nature of racing and the emergence of new talent in the family. Kevin reflected on the importance of staying in contention and finishing races, underscoring how quickly fortunes can change in motorsport.
“You just have to keep yourself rolling and in contention… to finish first, you must first finish.”
—Kevin Harvick
With Keelan outrunning Kenna Mitchell over the closing six laps, he crossed the finish line as the victor. Kevin Harvick was recognized for leading halfway through, which meant both father and son left Kern Raceway credited as race winners that night.
Banter Between the Harvicks Sets the Stage
Before the CARS Tour Mission Bank 250 at Kern County Raceway, Kevin and Keelan Harvick took part in a playful promotional video posted by NASCAR. The father–son duo exchanged friendly jabs as they answered rapid-fire questions about the upcoming competition. One question asked who was most likely to spin out at the start, prompting both to point at each other and laugh.
“There’s no chance I’m spinning. There is no chance. Not even possible.”
—Kevin Harvick
“Like you said, I race every week. You’re in booth shape.”
—Keelan Harvick
This occasion marked the first direct on-track duel between Kevin, now pursuing a career in broadcasting, and Keelan, who continues to compete regularly in both karting and late model categories. Their playful competition added to the intensity and emotional drama of the event for fans and participants at Kern Raceway.
What This Means for the Harvick Family and Racing Fans
The intense showdown at Kern Raceway not only highlighted Keelan Harvick’s emerging talent but also marked a significant family moment as the spotlight shifted from a seasoned champion to his promising son. The crowd in Bakersfield, expecting to cheer for Kevin, witnessed the next generation take center stage. Their dual success and spirited banter reflect the evolving storyline of the Harvicks in motorsport and set the stage for future father-son rivalries as Keelan continues to make his mark on the track.
