Brett Wanner, a name resonating within the dirt track racing community, hails from Shoemakersville, Pennsylvania, and embodies the spirit of perseverance and passion. A devoted sprint car racer specializing in 358 sprints, Wanner’s recent victory at the Lincoln Speedway wasn’t just another win; it was a testament to his unwavering dedication and a powerful message of inclusivity. This triumph, celebrated under the special theme of Fallen Firefighters, underscores Wanner’s exceptional talent and his profound connection with his supporters and the deaf community.
Wanner’s journey to the winner’s circle at the Fallen Firefighters event was far from straightforward. Reflecting on his experience, Wanner admitted, “Really, I wasn’t expecting I would win that special event.” His initial confidence at the season’s start, fueled by a strong third-place finish, was soon challenged when a motor part broke down. This setback, occurring just weeks after his promising start, was compounded by further engine damage, leading Wanner to believe his season was over. “I thought for sure the season was over for me,” he recounted. The timing couldn’t have been worse, as Wanner felt an upsurge of support that year, building upon his two victories from the previous season.
Compounding the mechanical issues were the supply chain disruptions caused by COVID-19, making it difficult to source replacement parts. Frustration mounted, but Wanner’s determination, driven by his loyal fanbase, pushed him to find a solution. He invested in a new motor, a significant change that altered the feel and handling of his sprint car. “I still was learning with the new motor, because my old motor wasn’t the same. The feeling of driving wasn’t the same, it was different, so it was new to me,” Wanner explained. Despite the unfamiliar dynamics, Wanner skillfully adapted, showcasing his expertise and innate racing ability, ultimately leading him to a surprising yet deeply satisfying victory.
This win carried a significance beyond personal achievement for Wanner. “I was shocked that it actually happened. I felt it shows that deaf people can do it. It shows that,” he emphasized. For Wanner, his success serves as a powerful symbol for the deaf community, demonstrating that individuals with hearing impairments can excel in demanding and competitive fields like Sprint Car Racing. He sees his accomplishment as part of a larger movement, highlighting the diverse skills and achievements of deaf individuals across various domains.
Wanner’s passion for dirt track racing and sprint cars is deeply ingrained. His journey began at the age of 14 with MVOCC Micro Sprint Cars, progressing to ARDC midget racing. He credits Greg Gunderson, a retired deaf sprint car racer with 30 years of experience, for his invaluable support during his ARDC midget racing years. An unexpected opportunity arose when Wanner was asked to drive a 305 sprint car, a significant step up from the 250cc micro sprints where he had already secured two wins. Despite his initial lack of experience with sprint cars, the team’s belief in him proved well-founded. His recent victory in the 358 sprint car race marks his third major win, solidifying his presence in the sprint car racing scene.
Unlike some sports that demand rigorous practice schedules, sprint car racing for Brett Wanner is largely about race-day performance. “No, we just wait until the day of the race. And I just drive,” he stated. The format involves arriving on race day, taking a heat lap to assess track conditions and car setup, and making necessary adjustments based on feel. This reliance on instinct and immediate adaptation underscores the high level of skill and experience Wanner has cultivated over his 17 years in racing.
When asked about his thought process behind the wheel, Wanner revealed a blend of strategic thinking and intuitive car feel. “I always get in, and think about where I should go, outside and inside… Plus, who starts, other drivers, and what’s their way?” He analyzes the starting grid and anticipates other drivers’ moves while simultaneously focusing on the car’s feedback. Car setup is a crucial element, and Wanner is keenly aware of how it impacts performance. A well-tuned car enhances his ability to navigate the dirt track with precision and speed.
Looking ahead, Wanner expresses gratitude for his supporters and fans, considering them an extension of his family. He views his racing success as an opportunity to further inspire and uplift the deaf community. His victory at Lincoln Speedway is not just a personal milestone but a symbol of what deaf individuals can achieve with dedication, skill, and community support in the exhilarating world of sprint car racing.
