Ryan Timms recently made history as the youngest winner at the Knoxville Nationals in August, becoming the first driver to do so since Kenny Weld in 1964. His impressive accomplishment has drawn attention from notable figures in the racing world, including Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, who recently praised Timms’ rapid ascent in the sport.
Kyle Larson’s Admiration for Timms’ Performance and Team
During an appearance on the Stacking Pennies podcast, Larson expressed admiration for the teenager’s outstanding season.
“He has been killing it this year. Their car is really, really good too. That was awesome to see him. I can’t imagine being 18 or whatever he is and winning 190,000 dollars and winning the biggest race of the year and then back it up…”
stated Larson, highlighting both the youthful driver’s skill and his team’s preparation.
Larson also noted the confidence within Timms’ camp and speculated on the future.
“I think that was cool too, that his team was really prepared and confident. But he is good. I have no clue if he wants to get to NASCAR, anything like that. The money he is getting is so much better in dirt racing, like I think a lot of those guys are like Why…”
Ryan Timms’ Unique Path in Dirt Racing
Ryan Timms has chosen a career path that differs notably from his father’s. While he grew up exposed to Late Model racing and even found it cooler at first, Timms ultimately gravitated toward sprint cars after gaining early experience in junior sprints. This shift redirected his focus toward open-wheel racing where he found his true passion.
Starting at the age of eight in 2015, Timms competed on micro-sprint tracks across Oklahoma. His talent quickly propelled him forward, and by 2017, he had claimed the junior sprint division victory at the Tulsa Shootout on New Year’s Eve, marking him as one of the nation’s top young open-wheel prospects.
Future Prospects and Impact on Dirt and Stock Car Racing
Although Timms’ achievements on sprint cars have brought both financial stability and a clear sense of direction, his ambitions regarding NASCAR remain uncertain. Many racing fans and observers are eager to see a driver of his abilities transition to stock cars, which could offer an exciting new chapter in his career. For the moment, Ryan Timms appears committed to dirt racing, where his talent continues to shine and develop.
