Ryan Preece, celebrated as a Ryan Preece self-made racer, has forged an inspiring journey from his family’s modest Connecticut plumbing and HVAC business to the heights of NASCAR’s Cup Series. While notable drivers like Ryan Blaney, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Chase Elliott, and Layne Riggs benefit from multi-generational legacies, Preece’s roots are distinctly different, stemming from hard work and blue-collar perseverance rather than longstanding motorsports dynasties.
Beginnings in Meriden and the Spark of Competition
Growing up in Meriden, Connecticut, Preece first entered racing at Silver City, following in the footsteps of his two older brothers. One brother showed talent in dirt micro events at Whip City in Massachusetts, prompting Ryan to keep their shared competitive fire alive when his sibling shifted focus toward other pursuits. Early experiences in go-karts built the foundation of his racing career, fueling Preece’s determination to continue even after his brothers moved on.
Progression Through the Ranks and a Life-Changing Deal
Preece’s ambition propelled him forward, shifting from dirt micros to asphalt events and then to Mahoning Valley’s tracks. His racing trajectory took a dramatic turn at age 13 when he received an offer to drive a modified car—a pivotal moment that solidified his dedication. By selling his asphalt 600 cc micro sprint for $10,000, Preece was able to purchase his first turnkey modified car, a Troyer from the early ‘90s, marking a balanced exchange that shifted his aspirations to a higher level of competition.
Winning Respect in a Challenging Industry
Frontstretch reporter Amy Henderson recognized Preece’s story as emblematic of racers who grind their way to the top, earning respect step by step. Preece agreed, emphasizing the significance of humble beginnings and the sacrifices behind every lap:
“Yeah, that’s part of racing. It’s the stories, the family sacrifices, the sponsors that come with you. That’s what makes racing great, because we drive racecars, but a lot of it was this guy was a mechanic, or this guy was a plumber, and he raced on weekends.”
— Ryan Preece, NASCAR driver
Preece drew parallels to NASCAR legends, expressing how these challenging paths form the heart of true racers:
“It’s no different than what Dale Earnhardt‘s story was many, many years ago, his hardships. So, that’s what makes racers great. And I think at the end of the day, the respect that you carry through the garage on how you get there, as well as the respect you carry with race fans, is a huge piece of it,”
he added. — Ryan Preece, NASCAR driver
Guidance and Regional Pride on the Path to Success
Preece, now with RFK Racing, has credited influential figures in his journey, mentioning insights acquired from RFK Racing owner Brad Keselowski regarding both opportunities and hurdles in northern US racing circuits. In interviews, Preece has highlighted not only the importance of guidance and mentorship but also the continuing struggle to break through as a young racer outside the traditional southern NASCAR hubs.
The acknowledgment from local mini-stock racers in Connecticut and the greater Northeast resonates deeply with Preece. Praise from fellow regional drivers, even those who only know of his journey, stands as a testament to his authenticity and enduring influence in his hometown area, Silver City, and beyond.
An Enduring Legacy Built on Hard Work
Ryan Preece’s career, grounded in self-reliance and persistence, is now emblematic of what it means to be a Ryan Preece self-made racer. His rise showcases the potential for talent and determination to outshine lineage, inspiring upcoming drivers who lack family ties in the sport. As Preece continues to compete at NASCAR’s highest level, his story remains a beacon for those who believe in hard work, regional pride, and earning respect at every turn—for racers, race fans, and the entire racing community alike.
.@RyanPreece_ spoke about what @RFKracing owner @keselowski has taught him, his start in racing and the opportunities — and obstacles — out there for young racers in the Northeast. #NASCAR https://t.co/WhKklt4u10
— Frontstretch (@Frontstretch) September 25, 2025
