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Racing is tops in Gerhard’s family
By Cheryl Licklider, Commentary
Jason Gerhard is carrying on the family tradition of stock car racing as he embarks on his ninth season at Enid Speedway Park in the popular limited modified division. The Gerhards are a close-knit clan who believe the family that races together stays together.
Gerhard’s grandfather, Bill A. Gerhard, was a legend on the Garfield County Fairground’s high-banked oval for several decades, which paved the way for his son’s (David) and Bill W. Gerhard’s own triumphant runs. This young driver’s mother, Terry, raced for several seasons in the pure stock class. It was not surprising, but expected, this contender began chasing checkered flags when he was merely 16 years old.
“I decided that I was going to be a stock car driver when I was 10 years old,” said Gerhard. “I picked the number 47 because it was my grandpa’s number.”
He was a natural born fearless racer. Gerhard said when the green flag waves he’s ready to go and never had an anxious moment on the track, even his first night out.
This successful competitor began his racing career in the mini stock division, where he paid his dues for two and a half seasons. Following a stint in pure stocks Gerhard stepped up to the premier limited modified class three years ago.
“I really like this class,” said Gerhard. “The limited modifieds are easier to work on and easier to wash. There is lot of work on them though, it seems like I spend time on this one every day. Racing is a lot of fun, but is definitely an expensive hobby. It takes sponsorship to race. With the recession I lost a major sponsor but I was lucky to add a new one last week.”
Sponsors of the quick No. 47J car include Creel Lawn Service, Hughes Automotive, Gerhard Racing and CW Scooters.
“Hughes Automotive has been really good to me this season,” said Gerhard. “I want to give special thanks to all of my sponsors. I couldn’t be here without them. The economy has made it hard to get good sponsors. I just hope to make it through the rest of the year.”
Shawn Hughes heads up the team as crew chief and is assisted by Gerhard’s father, David. According to the weekend warrior, his brother, Kevin, assists when he can as well as mom, wife, Jennifer, and his children.
“It is fun having everyone work on the car,” said Gerhard. “My family is very supportive and they all come watch me race every week. I plan to keep competing until my kids get big enough to race. We’ll probably start them out in go-carts or mini sprints.”
JIMMY MINTER 'AKA'dirtrack234
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