Kyle Larson Tulsa Shootout efforts are in full swing as his daughter Audrey, just seven years old, emerges as a standout competitor in the Junior Sprint division. On Friday in Tulsa, her performance captivated racing fans and even garnered the attention of JR Motorsports co-owner Kelley Earnhardt, with Audrey chasing her first coveted Golden Driller trophy later tonight.
The Larson family is participating deeply in this year’s event. Kyle Larson, fresh off his second Cup Series title, is competing in the elite Winged Outlaw division, while his children Owen and Audrey each take on their own races. Both Kyle and Owen have already advanced to the main feature races in their respective classes, setting a high bar for the family.
Early Success Puts Audrey in Contention
Audrey’s journey began with a win in her opening heat race on December 30, marking her as one to watch. This strong start launched her into the B-Mains round, where she held her own and secured a second-place result. Racing the No. 83 Roto-Rooter/HendrickCars.com car, constructed on a Factory Fourteen Lynk chassis, Audrey now faces the Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ) in the Junior Sprints, hoping to claim one of the final transfer spots.
Factory Fourteen, recognizing her achievements, took to Instagram to share an update and photos from her preliminary run:
“@audrey.larson57 is LCQ bound 👊🏼”
The visible support from the racing community grew, as Kelley Earnhardt, co-owner of JR Motorsports, applauded Audrey’s effort with a note of encouragement:
“Way to go girl!”
The Junior Sprint category is for young drivers aged 6 to 12, offering a competitive platform for rising talent. Out of all qualifiers, the top 16 point leaders lock directly into the A-Main race. Despite her early heat win, Audrey missed a locked position, though her determination in the B-Mains propelled her to yet another critical round. She now competes in the LCQ, vying for one of eight final positions in a 20-car field gunning for the prestigious Golden Driller tonight.
Family Drives Continue as Competition Intensifies
Kyle Larson himself has chosen to focus solely on the intensely competitive Sawyer Chassis Winged Outlaw class this year. He has already locked in a feature starting position, provisionally set for the sixth slot, though the results of tonight’s remaining LCQs could further adjust those placements. Larson’s relentless off-season, which featured victories at major dirt events including an international win in Australia’s High Limit International, underscores the high expectations for his performance in Tulsa.
The family’s racing spirit extends to Owen Larson, Kyle’s eleven-year-old son. Owen has entered three classes—Restricted, Stock Non-Wing, and Winged A-Class—and secured a place in the Restricted A-Feature after triumphing in his own qualifier. Both he and Audrey stand poised to chase Golden Driller wins, potentially making this a standout weekend for the entire Larson family.
Notable Peers Chase Victory and Show Solidarity
Competition at the Tulsa Shootout also draws other prominent racing families. Kelley Earnhardt’s son, Wyatt Miller, has been an active contender, starting from pole position in his Winged Outlaw B-Main (Race 410). He aims to earn advancement through the LCQ and join the feature lineup, intensifying the battle among some of the most promising young talents in the sport.
The Tulsa Shootout week has developed into a showcase for next-generation racers, with a blend of raw skill and encouragement from established names shaping the next wave of motorsport talent. As excitement builds for the final features, all eyes remain on Audrey Larson’s pursuit, highlighting how family involvement and youthful determination keep the sport’s spirit thriving.
The coming races will determine whether the Larson family, with Kyle, Owen, and Audrey each competing in their categories, can claim more victories and perhaps clinch rare family wins at one of grassroots racing’s premier events. For fans and peers watching in Tulsa and beyond, this year’s Shootout is shaping up as a memorable stage for both seasoned champions and rising stars.
