Tyler Ankrum Bio
Early Life and Background
Tyler Michael Ankrum was born on March 6, 2001, in San Bernardino, California. Growing up in a family that valued hard work, Ankrum was exposed to racing at a young age. His mother, Michelle Ankrum, played a significant role in his early life, encouraging his interests. Ankrum attended Lake Norman High School in Mooresville, North Carolina, where he graduated in 2019, balancing his education with his burgeoning racing career.
Path to NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
Ankrum began his racing journey in quarter midgets before progressing to late models, where he achieved notable success. He won his first late model race at Caraway Speedway at just fourteen years old. His transition to the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East in 2018 marked a significant step in his career, where he quickly made a name for himself by winning the championship that year, making him the first driver born in the 21st century to win a NASCAR national series race.
Tyler Ankrum Career
Early Career (2018-2019)
Ankrum’s career took off in 2018 when he signed with David Gilliland Racing to compete in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. He clinched the championship that season, showcasing his talent and determination. Following this success, he made his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Martinsville in 2018, where he finished eighteenth. His early career was marked by a series of ups and downs, including sponsorship challenges that limited his full-time participation in 2019.
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Breakthrough (2019-2020)
In 2019, Ankrum achieved his first Truck Series victory at the Buckle Up in Your Truck 225 in Kentucky, marking a milestone for both him and DGR-Crosley, as it was their first win in the series. This victory qualified him for the playoffs, although he did not advance past the Round of 6. Ankrum continued to develop his skills and gain experience in the series, joining GMS Racing for the 2020 season.
McAnally–Hilgemann Racing Era (2024-Present)
In December 2023, Ankrum announced his move to McAnally–Hilgemann Racing for the 2024 season, where he would drive the newly renumbered No. 18 Chevrolet Silverado RST. His consistency throughout the regular season allowed him to qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2020. Ankrum’s performance in the 2025 season began with a challenging 34th-place finish at Daytona, but he rebounded with a significant win at Rockingham, breaking a 130-race winless streak.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Ankrum is known for his strategic approach to racing, often demonstrating strong racecraft and adaptability on the track. His ability to manage fuel mileage effectively has been a key factor in his success, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Ankrum’s career highlights include winning the 2018 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East championship and his first Truck Series victory in 2019. He is recognized for being the first driver born in the 21st century to win a NASCAR national series race, a testament to his talent and potential in the sport.
Tyler Ankrum Career Wins
Tyler Ankrum has secured a total of 2 wins in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, alongside notable achievements in other series.
Current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Highlights
In the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Ankrum has recorded 2 wins and has consistently finished in the top ten, showcasing his competitiveness. His first win came at the Buckle Up in Your Truck 225 in 2019, and his most recent victory was at Rockingham in 2025, marking a significant comeback in his career.
Previous ARCA Menards Series Achievements
In the ARCA Menards Series, Ankrum achieved 1 win, with his first victory coming at the Zinsser SmartCoat 150 in 2023. His performance in this series further established him as a rising star in the world of motorsports.
Tyler Ankrum Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Ankrum’s family has been supportive of his racing ambitions, with his mother, Michelle, being a significant influence in his life. His upbringing on a ranch in Southern California provided him with a unique perspective on hard work and dedication.
Personal Life
Ankrum enjoys spending time on his 474-acre ranch when not racing, reflecting his connection to his roots. His early dreams of becoming a professional bull rider and golfer highlight his diverse interests before fully committing to a career in racing.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for Ankrum, marked by a strong start despite a challenging finish at Daytona. His victory at Rockingham not only ended a lengthy winless streak but also reinvigorated his confidence heading into the playoffs. Ankrum’s performance has shown promise, and his ability to navigate the competitive landscape of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series positions him as a driver to watch in the coming races.
