Kyle Larson, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, is taking on a unique 2026 Tulsa Shootout by pooling his energy into both his own race in the Winged Outlaw division and supporting his children’s involvement in dirt racing, signaling a pivotal family moment in the world of micro-sprint competition. The focus on the Kyle Larson Tulsa Shootout racing experience highlights not only Larson’s professional presence but also the emerging talent of his children, Owen and Audrey, as they navigate one of the most anticipated events at the SageNet Center.
Kyle Larson Balances Racing and Fatherhood at the Tulsa Shootout
This year, Kyle Larson has decided to compete exclusively in the Winged Outlaw division, stepping back from a multi-category schedule to prioritize his children’s early journeys in motorsports. Owen and Audrey Larson, now regulars at micro-sprint tracks, are both set to participate in the Tulsa Shootout—a prestigious event often dubbed the Mecca of Micros. This annual competition, staging its largest meet yet, welcomes 1,798 participants across categories such as A-Class, Non-Wing, Restricted, and Jr. Sprint, drawing widespread attention from racers and fans alike.
Larson recently offered insights into his children’s personalities and their differing relationships to racing. About his daughter Audrey, he shared,
“She’s kind of herself. I think she’s just really competitive… she watches her older brother and wants to do what he’s doing. But then like I said, she’s herself. She plays ice hockey. I definitely have never played ice hockey. And she’s athletic and wants to play baseball.”
— Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Continuing, Larson compared both his kids:
“On the racing side of it, she’s probably more similar to me than Owen would be. Owen personality-wise is more similar to me. Audrey’s very fiery and lots of personality and attitude. I’m not like that. The competitive mindset, probably more similar to me. But yeah, it’s just fun to see your kids’ characteristics play out and just see them grow up.”
— Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
The event’s schedule aligns closely with the Chili Bowl Nationals, and serves as an early proving ground for many young racers. Owen, now 11, is entered in multiple divisions, while Audrey, at 7 years old, will compete in the Jr. Sprint class. Unlike previous years, Kyle Larson is focusing solely on the Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw bracket, with qualifications set for January 1, pacing himself to balance competition and his role as a supportive parent.
Kyle Larson’s Racing Season Builds Toward Tulsa
Since wrapping up his second NASCAR Cup title, Larson’s commitment to racing has not waned. He recently participated in the Hangtown 100 at Placerville, and nearly led Ventura’s iconic Turkey Night race before departing briefly for Australia. There, in Perth, Larson once again demonstrated his prowess by securing a second consecutive victory at the $110,000 High Limit International finale. These international wins have kept him sharp as he returns to U.S. competition for the Tulsa event.
Larson’s ongoing versatility—from Cup titles to dirt track triumphs, and now to mentoring his children at one of the most challenging micro-sprint races—highlights his dedication to both personal achievement and the next generation of the Larson family on the track.
Audrey Larson Prepares for Her Jr. Sprint Debut in Tulsa
Audrey Larson is making her debut in the Jr. Sprint class, a racing category specifically tailored for drivers aged 6 to 12. Every aspect, from car design to horsepower, is reduced and age-appropriate, but the thrill and competition remain intense. Audrey has already put in strong performances, notably advancing from second to first during the Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints FuelTech Heats on December 30.
Kyle Larson emphasized Audrey’s dedication and confidence in her racing debut:
“Audrey, she’s getting to run her first Shootout in the junior sprint — and she takes it very seriously. We’ve watched every lap of the 2024 Shootout, every lap of the Junior Sprint. So she’s been studying. Hopefully, she can do good… And then Owen, he has been doing a good job this year, but he’s going to be in a lot of tough divisions, so I don’t know what to expect there.”
— Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
The Jr. Sprint qualifiers take place on January 1, with main events following on January 2, culminating in a featured Saturday finale on January 3. Audrey’s thoughtful approach and competitive mindset are already evident, making her one of the young drivers to watch among the crowded field of rising talents.
Looking Ahead: The Larson Family’s Impact on Micro-Sprint Racing
With both Owen and Audrey participating alongside their champion father, the Tulsa Shootout becomes a meaningful chapter for the Larson family, reinforcing connections in the dirt racing community and potentially inspiring other families to follow suit. Key entities such as the SageNet Center, High Limit International, Hangtown 100, and Flying A Motorsports Junior Sprints FuelTech take on added significance as backdrops in the family’s evolving story. The event’s outcome may influence not only Kyle Larson’s competitive future but also shape the next generation of racers emerging from the grassroots ranks of micro-sprint competition.
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