Corey Heim’s unconventional rise in NASCAR racing has captured attention for its rare blend of ingenuity and determination, as the 22-year-old driver found an unexpected path from humble beginnings to the forefront of the NASCAR Truck Series. Competing with Tricon Garage Toyota, Heim’s story sheds light on how creativity and persistence, rather than a racing pedigree or wealth, have fueled his ascent through the stock car ranks.
A Modest Start Fuels Big Aspirations
Growing up in Atlanta’s suburbs, Corey Heim began his motorsports journey at just four years old, entering the world of karting before progressing to Legend car events at EchoPark Speedway. Unlike many peers from racing families or those with significant financial backing, Heim moved quietly up the ranks, catching few headlines early on. As noted by motorsports journalist Jeff Gluck, even insiders had limited insight into his origins, highlighting just how unconventional and understated his route has been.
Heim’s current record paints a picture of remarkable progress. Campaigning the No. 11 Tricon Garage Toyota, he leads the NASCAR Truck Series standings this season with 566 points, securing four wins, ten top-ten finishes, and eight top-five results in just twelve events. His recent second-place finish in Nashville, right behind Rajah Caruth, further emphasizes his status as a top contender.
The Family’s Unique Resourcefulness
During a post-race interview with Jeff Gluck, Heim reflected on his transition from early legend car experiences. Key to his ability to keep racing was his father, Ray Heim, whose own time on the legends circuit saw him compete against names like Chase Elliott, Austin Dillon, and Ty Dillon. Yet unlike those families, the Heims had to find creative ways to support Corey’s racing ambitions. Heim described his father’s “low-budget” approach, noting that he worked in the gambling industry, selling old slot machine monitors to help cover racing expenses during Corey’s formative years.
He was low-budgeted; he works in the gambling industry and sold old monitors from slot machines to fund his racing when I was growing up and raced locally,
—Corey Heim, Driver
Corey’s first go-kart was a Christmas surprise from his dad, igniting a small racing operation that was at first just a family hobby. Races at Cumming and Lancier forged his competitive drive, but frequent setbacks sometimes made him question continuing in the sport.
Finding Momentum Through Adversity
The early years were tough for the Heims, both financially and on the racetrack. Corey admitted that frustration and lack of results made it tempting to step away, but the supportive relationships around him kept his ambitions alive. As Ray Heim’s side business began to prosper, more substantial investments in Corey’s racing became possible, allowing a move to Late Models and eventually ARCA competition—even as long-term prospects remained uncertain.
Supplementing his development, Corey also engaged in iRacing and then achieved additional wins in quarter-midget and Late Model contests. Throughout this process, the family operated with the philosophy of persevering as far as possible on their available resources, determined to seize every opportunity that arose before the next door might close.
From Local Races to National Recognition
Corey Heim’s prospects began to change when Toyota noticed his burgeoning talent. According to Heim, their relationship grew gradually, opening new possibilities for growth and exposure on larger stages. This support became pivotal, as it allowed him to focus on developing his skills at higher levels and progressing towards his current status as a leader in the Truck Series.
Little by little, Toyota started to help us, and eventually it turned into what it is now,
—Corey Heim, Driver
His steady progress and evident passion played crucial roles in attracting sponsorship and manufacturer attention. Even as a part-timer in the Cup Series for Denny Hamlin’s 23XI Racing, Heim has continued to learn and grow on racing’s biggest stages.
P13 today at Kansas. Big thanks to @23xi @RobinhoodApp – learned a lot out there. Can’t wait to be back behind the wheel of the No. 67 #teamtoyota pic.twitter.com/oKnSDiY2q7
—Corey Heim, Driver
Looking Forward in NASCAR
Corey Heim’s story stands as a testament to the impact of grit, family resourcefulness, and undaunted ambition. By turning an unlikely slot machine side business into a launchpad for a burgeoning racing career, the Heim family defied industry conventions shaped by wealth and legacy. As Heim’s journey continues to unfold, fans and young racers alike will watch closely to see how his unique approach and determination influence the future trajectory of his NASCAR career, potentially inspiring others outside the traditional motorsport establishment.
