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News
6/30/08
TJ talking with the fans after the race - Photo Courtesy of The Nicki Factor
TJ Hartman Racing - UPDATE - TJ Survives the Heat Wave
Puyallup, WA - June 29, 2008...
An unseasonably hot evening in the Northwest had temperatures in the 90's, and allowed the fans to watch the action in normal summer attire. It also made for track conditions that would test the drivers skills. After a week off, TJ returned to action at the Grays Harbor Raceway, and continues to progress in his rookie season. The hot action on the track was proceeded earlier in the day with a car show display in nearby Shelton, WA.
The owners of Olsen Furniture are great race fans, and the TJ Hartman Racing team was fortunate to be included in the publicity for the sales event that included daily radio spots preceding the event mentioning the drivers names, along with the radio station doing a live remote and interviewing the drivers on the air. "I had fun at the show." TJ states. "I like doing these kind of things where we can display the car and talk with people about what we do."
The night started off with the Lacey Auto Licensing, A1A BuyNSell, Beach Hut Vacations, Rockslinger Inc., Advanced Powder Coating team pulling a starting position deep in the heat race field. TJ provides the details: "It's tough when you pull a high pill number and only have a few laps to make up some ground. I missed an opportunity to take advantage when a couple of cars had problems on the starts and I got moved up a row from 6th to 4th. I basically slid high going into the first corner and let a guy get past me." The pit area was filled with enough cars to warrant a B-main event, and it looked like TJ was going to have to dig himself out of a hole if he was going to make the main event. TJ continues: "Luck was kind of on my side when we found out we were going to start the A-main without running the B."
TJ talking with Rod Olsen of Olsen Furniture - Photo Courtesy of Fletcher Motorsports
TJ lined up for the start of the main event in the 11th position, and passed two cars through turns one and two. The second lap took several tries to get complete as drivers struggled to keep the cars hooked up on the sun baked dry slick track. TJ describes the remainder of the night: "On one of the restarts I hit the wall going down the front stretch. There was a yellow for someone else, and I decided to pull in so my crew could look for any damage. It was a pretty hard hit, and I wanted to make sure everything was OK. They said everything was fine, so I went back out and lined up at the back. The race went green the rest of the way, and that gave me a really good chance to be comfortable in the car. I made some good passes, and tried some different stuff to try and get towards the front. When it was over, I wasn't sure how many cars I passed. We thought maybe we had another top 10, but they scored me 11th, so I was satisfied."
The 16 year old rookie critics his performance in the Wesmar powered Maxim sprint car: "I'm still struggling to make the car roll the corners, getting going faster, and figuring out what to tell the crew to stay ahead of the track. But I like these dry slick tracks, and maybe one of these times I won't do something that makes me have to restart in the back of the pack. It's fun passing cars, but I'd rather be lapping them instead!"
The next race for TJ Hartman Racing is July 5th at the Grays Harbor Raceway. TJ and his team are excited that the early summer schedule includes some consecutive weeks to keep honing his skills. TJ enjoys talking about his racing and his sponsors, and we encourage you to show your enthusiasm for the team by supporting those who support us.
Next stop - Grays Harbor Raceway - July 5th!
TJ Hartman Racing
6/14/08
6/1/08
5/30/08
You can visit TJ's web site at
www.TJHartmanRacing.com or catch him at his next scheduled
stop.............The Grays Harbor Raceway in Elma, WA - May
31st!
TJ Hartman Racing
5/27/08
5/21/08
TJ - still smiling even after a DNF at the May 17th race - Photo Courtesy of The Nicki Factor
TJ Hartman Racing - SCHEDULE UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - May 21, 2008...
TJ Hartman Racing has made a schedule change to include the inaugural race this Saturday night at the Grays Harbor Raceway for the newly formed ASCS Northwest Region. The American Sprint Car Series(ASCS) boasts some of the nations best 360 sprint car drivers in the country, and the best in the Northwest take to the track this weekend to kick off the ASCS Northwest 15 race series that includes tracks in Oregon and Washington for 2008.
"I'm excited!" TJ says with a smile. "We've got the car back together after last weekend, and there's no sense just waiting around to race." The mechanical failure last weekend put a small damper on TJ's rookie season at the Grays Harbor Raceway in the Wesmar powered Maxim 360 sprint car. TJ continues: "I really just want to get behind the wheel and turn some laps. They call these things sprint cars because that's what it is - a sprint. You've got to figure things out pretty fast in these cars, and it's hard waiting for another week to get here so I can get back in the seat."
The original schedule did not include the ASCS Northwest Tour races, as TJ and his team had hoped to compete in a few non-wing races. His young age limited his chances to run close to home, and the nearest opportunities are in California. With the high fuel prices, the team opted to stick with the original dates scheduled at the Grays Harbor Raceway, and use a wait and see plan to fill the rest of the schedule. "We've got some really supportive fans and sponsors." TJ states. "This will be nice to add another race close to home where they can get a chance to see us run."
ASCS Northwest Series Manager Greg Burgess: "We are ecstatic that TJ and his team are able to make our inaugural weekend. It will be a great experience for TJ, and great exposure for his sponsors. TJ is young, but with a quarter midget resume that includes 4 National championships and over 127 feature main event wins, I don't think anyone wants him sitting in the stands this weekend. Running with these guys will add to TJ's short, but already strong, 360 sprint car resume."
TJ Hartman Racing would like to remind everyone that it is very easy for the team to get excited and have fun because of the support of our great sponsors like Rockslinger Inc., Lacey Auto Licensing, A1A BuyNSell, Beach Hut Vacations, Hooker Harness, Becklers Mobile Welding, Performance Coatings, Advanced Powder Coating, Simpson Racing, Parts Plus of Puyallup, Rod End Supply, and all of the fans, who show their enthusiasm for the team.
Next stop - Grays Harbor Raceway - May 24th!
TJ Hartman Racing
5/19/08
Photo Courtesy of FletcherMotorsports
TJ Hartman Racing - UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - May 17, 2008...
This weekends great weather, and a beautiful race track, ended in disappointment for TJ Hartman and his race team. A mechanical failure in the front end of the #19 Wesmar powered Maxim ended the evening on the first lap of the main event.
A week off from racing had TJ anxious to get behind the wheel of his Lacey Auto Licensing, A1A BuyNSell, Beach Hut Vacations, Rockslinger Inc., Advanced Powder Coating, sprint car. "We're really not sure what happened." TJ explains. "We took the green flag and everything was fine. Going down the frontstretch to start the second lap, the steering felt like it just locked up, and then started to pull to the right real hard. So I just hit the brakes, and tried to keep it off the wall."
The winged sprint car slid to a stop in turn 1 with the left front sitting on the ground, and in need of a tow truck. TJ continues: "The front axle was bent back, and the tie rod and drag link were both bent too. I never hit anything, so it's kind of confusing what happened. We're thinking maybe something was weakened in the last race when I tipped over, but we never saw anything when we prepped the car. I'm disappointed because the car was really good, and the track was perfect for me. I really wanted to make some laps this week."
With a schedule that wasn't set to include the ASCS Northwest Tour races, TJ may have to go another two weeks before he gets a chance to tighten his belts and wave the Grays Harbor Raceway push trucks to go. "I'm just anxious." TJ states while wearing his traditional smile. "I didn't know it, but one of my friends from California flew in at the last minute to see me race. He was sitting in the stands and wanted to surprise me, but never got a chance to really see me run. He came up to Hanford last year to help us, and it would have been cool to have him see me run with the wing on. He said I looked pretty good, and to just keep working on my line, and of course, my starts!"
The next scheduled race for TJ Hartman Racing is May 31st at the Grays Harbor Raceway. The team is anxious to be on the track, and continue with the goal of having fun and helping TJ develop his skills in the race car. A last minute flight change is indicative of the excitement and support for TJ and his team, and we encourage you to show your enthusiasm for the team by supporting those who support us.
Next scheduled stop - Grays Harbor Raceway - May 31st!
Photo Courtesy
of The Nicki Factor
TJ Hartman
Racing and Rockslinger Inc. - Making it look easy!
Puyallup, WA - May 13,
2008...
Hard work and
planning always pays dividends. Occasionally, letting someone, (or
something) else do the work can pay off even bigger. That is exactly what the
Rockslinger is for. A remote controlled delivery system for your
landscaping and construction needs that eliminates the back breaking labor
involved in placing materials in those hard to reach areas.
Owner Lance Koehler describes the process: "It's basically a dump truck with a
conveyor that can shoot out material accurately up to 75 feet. We can maneuver
everything by a wireless remote control panel I hold while surveying the
operation, and we put the material exactly where it's needed." Designed for
construction services, the Rockslinger truck is quickly becoming
popular in the home improvement industry. Lance continues: "We can shoot sand
and gravel for foundations, driveways, ditches, slopes, basements, and things
like that for new construction. But it's also great for the homeowner who wants
to spread some topsoil or beauty bark. Our 6 axle truck can can haul up to
70,000 pounds, about 15 yards of material, and unloads at around 1 cubic yard
per minute."
TJ talks about Rockslinger: "Lance came down to watch my first race in Elma,
and talked with me in the pits after the race. He said he liked how my car
looked, and he enjoyed watching me drive." TJ's smile and positive attitude is
pretty easy to take, and that led to another conversation with the Bonney Lake,
WA. based business owner. "I watched some videos of the Rockslinger truck in
action, and thought it was a pretty cool deal. Lance has a really nice piece of
equipment, and growing up around the construction industry, it was easy to
understand what we needed to do in order to help market Lance and his company."
TJ and Rockslinger owner Lance Koehler(far left) talking after
the season opener at Grays Harbor Raceway
The remote controlled truck is amazing to watch. It takes all of the back
breaking work out of placing material while you just sit back and watch. Lance
adds: "We can do a lot of things with this truck, but it's nothing like what
that kid does in his race car. Our pace isn't quite as fast as TJ is in his
race car! He's fun to watch, and we're excited for Rockslinger to be
on his team!"
You can find out more about Rockslinger, Inc. by visiting their web site at
www.Goslingit.com
Leave your wheel-barrows and shovels in the garage, get out your favorite lawn
chair, and call in the Rockslinger!
Stay up to date on all of the exciting news and
developments by visiting TJ's web site at
www.TJHartmanRacing.com
The 2008 racing season is underway, and TJ and his team continue on the path to
becoming a successful racing team. The team thanks all of the great sponsors of
TJ Hartman Racing, and encourage you to show your enthusiasm for the team by
supporting those who support us.
TJ Hartman Racing ...........Success Through Attention to Detail!
5/12/08
In 1995, while standing on a dock
waiting to unload my trailer, I met a new friend. My son was 2 at the time, and
I would have never envisioned how our relationship would develop the way it
did. Paul is older than me, and the only thing we really had in common at the
time was trucking. That would quickly change when he invited me to see a race
in 1994.
I had heard of Skagit Speedway before. Growing up in Montana, I remembered a
group of racers coming over to Missoula and then Helena, and the distinct name
of where they were from. I was all of 15 at the time, focused on other things,
but the name Skagit - and an old pickup with a push bumper and a quick change
rear end in it stood out in my mind. I couldn't tell you any of the names
that were racing that weekend, or anything about the races - as I said, my focus
was elsewhere.
Pauls excitement about the race we were going to see was justified the moment I
saw the cars hit the track for hot laps. He was from California, and while he
is passionate about all open wheel cars, sprintcars to him meant no wings,
backing it in the corner, and fans that sit to watch the race no matter how
excited they are. As usual, my focus was out of whack, but I recall being in
awe of a guy named Leland McSpadden that night. I know he crashed more than
once, and still won the race. And again, a couple of things besides the actual
racing stand out in my memory. I was astounded that we could go down to the
pits after the race, and walk right up and talk with the winner. And then
to find out that I could actually buy a t-shirt from them too, it was pretty
cool. I was shocked to find out that my host actually knew the winner of the
race, and baffled that it was all just normal stuff for Paul.
But those were not the things that stood out the most to me. It was the lessons
I would learn later from Paul, that are a daily reminder of who he is, and what
this sport means to him. He would educate me about the cost of a drivers
t-shirt, and why the amount of money spent on it was a good thing. I saw him
hand a driver some cash after a race, and wondered at the time why he would do
something like that. Over the years, he introduced my son and I to Dirt Cup,
The World of Outlaws, Grays Harbor Raceway, and the significance of Indiana open
wheel racing. He pointed out a guy named Fred, and knew the value of something
called loyalty.
He became a trusted and loyal friend. He watched and smiled as my family got
deeper and deeper into quarter midget racing. He moved back to California a few
years ago to be nearer his mom, whose health was ailing. When we flew down to
see a race in Tulare, he insisted on picking us up at the airport and spending
the weekend chauffeuring us around. The race was just a bonus. After his
mother passed, he transferred back up here to be nearer what he described as his
"closest friends". He was one of the few people we told about going to Madras
for TJ's first race in a sprintcar, and when I reminded him that it was a 5 hour
drive and maybe he should wait for a closer race, he emphatically reminded me
that he took personal satisfaction in knowing that he got us interested in
sprintcar racing, and he wasn't going to miss "the little goof's" first
race.
Last year when our team traveled to Hanford to race with the SCRA group, we both
laughed at the irony of our first excursion together to see the SCRA cars back
it in the corners. Paul was knee deep in work, and couldn't attend the
California races. But with the satisfaction of seeing TJ's first win in a
sprintcar, and knowing that one day his dream of being in Indiana during
speedweek(s) could possibly entail seeing the little goof sans the top, he
resigned himself to settling for waiting until 2008 to see him race closer to
home.
Now, a little over 14 years later, when the first race of the season was over at
Grays Harbor Raceway, I looked up to see a familiar smiling face strolling over
to greet his newest favorite race car driver after the race. I shouldn't have
been, (but I was), surprised to see him the next week, and then this past
Monday, he showed up at the shop - once again, to help a racer. As usual, we
talked about trucking, racing, the little goof, and our health. In typical Paul
fashion, he said goodbye a dozen times, and asked for a better route off the
South Hill of Puyallup. He had the same smile and energy as I had seen every
other time we met. He was as predictable as knowing the sun was going to rise
the next morning.
Because of the rainout this weekend, I didn't give a second thought to the fact
that the familiar face wasn't in the pits after the race. We loaded up, drove
home, and got up this morning to clean the trailer and ready everything for next
week. When my phone rang this morning, I recognized the name on the caller ID
as someone else whom Paul and I knew through trucking, and had spent some time
with at race tracks. I was not expecting the news he was calling to relay.
Early last Tuesday morning Paul had suffered a heart attack. The details were
sketchy, but he did know there was complications after the surgery, and Paul was
still in critical condition. We wouldn't be allowed to visit, or even know any
of the details from the hospital, as we were not immediate family, but Pauls
brother had driven over from his home in Idaho, and would try to keep us
apprised. The typical things engrossed our conversation. We had just seen him,
he was eating healthy and exercising, blah, blah, blah. I was humbled when the
caller also stated that Paul had been phoning him every Monday morning to update
him on TJ's races. I called his brother earlier this evening, and among the
details he shared, was knowing about TJ's racing. I had met his brother only
once, and he never met my son - but he knew of him.
Many things have crossed my mind today, and in typical fashion, the focus was
all skewed to me. Here was a guy that had I met 14 years ago on a dock, with
little or nothing in common, and it transformed into him sharing details about
us to others as if we were his family. That is a good feeling to have, and one
that is too few and far between. We take for granted the smiling face walking
towards us, or showing up just before dinner time. Just as I took for granted
that group of racers from someplace called Skagit, I took for granted that Paul
would say goodbye a dozen times before he left the shop. My focus was
elsewhere.
I take personal satisfaction in knowing that this guy, who never asks for
anything, thinks of my family as his. There is no way for him to know it right
now, but I'm focused on my friend Paul, and counting on him to be there for
Indiana speedweek(s) - one of these years.
Please give your thoughts and prayers for a friend of sprintcar racing - and a
friend of mine - Paul Keith.
5/12/08
Photo Courtesy of The Nicki Factor from April 26th race
TJ Hartman Racing - UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - May 10, 2008...
A disappointed TJ asked his dad: "Why
does it have to rain?" Because it's May in Western Washington son. This
weekends scheduled race at Grays Harbor Raceway was a rainout before some of the
cars had even unloaded from their trailers.
TJ had been busy this past week repairing the damage from the previous race, and
studying some videos of his last two races - looking at the areas he needs to
improve. He describes what he saw: "I definitely have to work on improving my
line into the corners. I need to make them just one turn, instead of several,
and I need to keep off the inner berm!" The good news is TJ never touched the
berm this week. The bad news is he never got a chance to try his new approach,
and will have to wait another week to continue developing his skills behind the
wheel of the Wesmar powered Maxim sprintcar.
The youngster continues: "I had one of my sponsors coming down to watch for the
first time this week, so I was pretty disappointed we didn't get a chance to run
because of the rain." Aside from cleaning the muddy floor of the trailer, this
weeks routine maintenance will get a break. TJ adds with a grin: "At least this
will give us a chance to catch up on some other things like polishing the car,
and I'm sure my parents will have some extra chores for me to do this week!"
Racing resumes May 17th at the Grays Harbor Raceway for TJ Hartman Racing in the
Lacey Auto Licensing, A1A BuyNSell, Beach Hut Vacations, Beckler's Mobile
Welding, Advanced Powder Coating sprintcar. The early forecast is for great
weather and a reminder for everyone to come out and show your enthusiasm for the
team by supporting those who support us.
Next stop - Grays Harbor Raceway - May 17th!
5/5/08
Photo Courtesy of The Nicki Factor
TJ
Hartman Racing -
UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - May 3, 2008...
The decision to pull away from the shop with a race car in tow, and the
windshield wipers on high, proved to be the right one for the Puyallup, WA based
360 Sprint car team. Twenty miles outside of Elma, the skies cleared and made
for a glorious afternoon to prepare TJ Hartman's Wesmar powered Maxim for duty
at the Grays Harbor Raceway. The evening was filled with the ups and downs of
racing, but in the end, TJ and his team showed they have the drive to compete.
A steady wind and the bright sun made for a drier track this week, and that
brought a smile to the 16 year old's face. "The track was good for me." TJ
comments. "We had the car set up a little better this week, and I felt really
comfortable." A good pill draw, and a fantastic run in a loaded heat race,
landed the Lacey Auto Licensing, A1A BuyNSell, Beach Hut Vacations team in it's
first ever trophy dash. "We almost missed it!" TJ says with concern. "We were
so excited, we missed the call to get ready, and I had to scramble to get out
there."
The Main event had TJ starting outside row 2, and on the start he dropped a few
positions. He describes the rest of the night: "I'm still getting comfortable
knowing what everyone is going to do, so I fell back a little on the start. We
had loosened the car up a little, and when the fuel load started burning off, it
just kept getting looser for me." With less than a handful of laps remaining,
TJ found himself with nowhere to turn, as he slid into another car that had
spun exiting turn two. The impact spun the #19 Sprint car around and the rookie
driver tipped over on his side.
TJ continues: "I knew my top wing was bent, and the wing ram was leaking fluid
everywhere. But the biggest damage was my front tire had demounted, so I had to
go to the pits. They towed me in, my crew put a new tire on, and I was able to
get back out there and pass some cars in the final laps. I wish I could have
avoided the wreck, but I was pretty happy to get back out and score my first top
five finish at Elma." The impact from the crash also smashed the exhaust
header, but it wasn't enough to hold him back. "When we took off I heard the
exhaust wasn't right, but it still had plenty of power, and there was only a few
laps left, so I just went for it." TJ states in a satisfied tone. The entire
team and the fans were more than satisfied to see the young driver unaffected by
his first crash in the sprint car.
"We've got some work to do on the car this week, but I can't wait to get out
there again." TJ says with a beaming smile.
Racing resumes May 10th at the Grays Harbor Raceway for TJ Hartman
Racing. The fans continue to come out and cheer on the team. TJ wants to
remind everyone that he could not be racing without the help of all his great
sponsors and friends of TJ Hartman Racing, and please show your enthusiasm
for the team by supporting those who support us.
Next stop - Grays Harbor Raceway - May 10th!
4/28/08
Photo courtesy of PitPrincess.com
TJ Hartman Racing - UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - April 26, 2008...
There are some things that remain
consistent in this world. The first thing to know about racing, or spectating,
at the Grays Harbor Raceway in Elma, WA. is knowing to bundle up - no matter the
time of year. When the sun goes down, the moist ocean air cools down, and the
action heats up. TJ's debut at the high banked 3/8 mile clay oval was met with
great enthusiasm by those who have been waiting to see him run the Lacey Auto
Licensing, A1A BuyNSell, BeachHut Vacations, Wesmar powered Maxim sprintcar.
All expectations of the Puyallup, WA based team were met - including the ongoing
practical jokes. Keeping it fun is priority one!
A tacky track made for a super fast, hooked up car, which was new to TJ, who had
yet to experience those types of G-forces in a sprint car. "I'm used to running
on the dry slick tracks" TJ comments. "Right away my neck got tired, so I just
leaned my head up against my Butlerbuilt seat and hung on!" The 16 year old
youngster had been formulating a plan for some areas he knew he wanted to
improve upon. "I've always been kind of a slow starter, so I really focused on
getting good starts and getting up to speed right away." TJ continues with his
self report card of the night - "I felt like I accomplished that, and felt
really comfortable in the car. The engine ran great and the car was fast.
I need to work on getting through traffic a little better. I think once I've
raced with these guys some more, I'll know better what moves to make. Finishing
6th wasn't what I expected for my first time down there. Those guys are pretty
tough and have a lot of laps around that place, so I'm pretty happy to run where
I did."
Rookie drivers are supposed to carry a rookie ribbon tied to the back
of the car to let the veteran drivers know who and what they're coming up on.
Mysteriously, sometime in the evening, that rookie ribbon was
redirected to the back of the quad used to push TJ up to the staging line.
Apparently the rookie skills of the crew chief were evident for most to see, and
the practical jokes continue in the TJ Hartman Racing camp! "We had the car
pretty tight" TJ says with a relieved smile. "I missed my line in one of the
early laps, and caught the infield berm, which made the car wheelie up pretty
good. It came down really hard, and I just got back on the gas and hoped
nothing was broken."
The hard landing broke a front wing mount, but the damage wasn't enough to keep
TJ from continuing to run laps averaging just over 100 mph, and finishing a
respectable 6th place. The crew was all smiles as TJ greeted his fans in the
pits after the race. Delays in the evenings racing program, and the mid 30
degree weather, wasn't enough to keep TJ's supporters from taking the time to go
down in the pits afterwards to congratulate the Emerald Ridge High School
sophomore. For TJ and all of his fans in Elma, it was a night that was a long
time coming, and judging by all of the smiling faces, it proved to be worth the
long wait.
Some things in this world remain consistent. Cool night temperatures in Elma, a
race team crew that is relentless in their practical jokes, and a driver that
always brings a smile to those around him. The first item is easily ignored
when you're having fun, and at TJ Hartman Racing, it's off to a fun start in
2008.
Stay up to date on all of the exciting news for TJ by visiting his web site at
www.TJHartmanRacing.com
The next race is at the Grays Harbor Raceway on May 3rd, and everyone is invited
out to cheer on the team. Please remember all of the great sponsors of TJ
Hartman Racing, and show your enthusiasm for the team by supporting those who
support us.
Next stop - Grays Harbor Raceway - May
3rd!
4/15/08
TJ Hartman Racing - UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - April 13, 2008...
On a beautiful Spring day that felt
more like the middle of summer, TJ was finally able to do what he had been
planning for since he first started racing quartermidgets at the Grays Harbor
Raceway - the opportunity to get on the big track in Elma. The team planned
this past Saturdays scheduled playday to make sure the Wesmar powered Maxim
was ready to go, and get TJ some time on the high speed clay oval. As it
turned out, the test and tune lived up to it's name - a test of the tune.
Once again TJ looked at his crew wondering if this was another practical joke
when the car would not run properly. The team struggled most of the day
trying to trace down the problem, while TJ looked as if he had grown up on the
high banked track. In reality he had, as he raced right next door at the
little track, and spent many nights studying the big cars waiting for his
chance to show what he could do.
In the end the problem turned out to be a simple improperly routed fuel line
from the fuel pump, and TJ was given one more opportunity by track officials
to test the car at it's limits. "I knew immediately it was fixed" TJ said.
"And the track was just how I like it, nice and dry slick. It gave me the
chance to use the throttle alot, and that's the way I like it". It only took
until the first corner to see that both TJ, and the Lacey Auto Licensing, A1A
Buy-N-Sell, BeachHut Vacations, Beckler's Mobile Welding sprint car was ready
to get the season started. A few fast laps later TJ exited the track, and
rolled the car to a stop at the trailer, as the crew smiled and gave a deep
sigh of relief.
Compliments on the cars appearance were plentiful from the fans and track
personnel who had been awaiting the arrival of TJ's debut on the big track.
Many had seen the youngster literally grow up in front of them, and were
anxious to see him run a full size car. The blue sky and hot sun made for a
picture perfect day, and the track photographer captured some brilliant shots
of TJ in action.
Now less than two weeks away, TJ will take on the competition once again in
Elma - this time against those who have known for several years he was
coming. The team invites each of you to plan on making it to Elma for the
season opener, but if you can't make it, you can stay up to speed on all of
the exciting news and new developments by visiting TJ's web site at
www.TJHartmanRacing.com
You can also find TJ's schedule by going directly to his web site link at http://www.tjhartmanracing.com/2008%20Schedule.htm
Through your help and support, TJ is ready for 2008. Once again, the team
thanks all of the great sponsors of TJ Hartman Racing, and encourage you to
show your enthusiasm for the team by supporting those who support us.
Next stop - Season Opener - April 26th - Grays Harbor Raceway in Elma!
TJ Hartman Racing
4/1/08
TJ Hartman Racing -
UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - April 1, 2008...
Even though the calendar officially says Spring, Winter still looms in the air
in the Northwest. The snow and cold are beautiful to look at, but lets just
hope that Mother Nature played her April Fools Day joke a little early, and
April brings warm weather and blue skies. The first playday looms just two
weeks away now, and TJ, his team, and his Wesmar powered Maxim sprint car are
ready for 2008.
In between rain and snow showers the team was able to get the new Wesmar engine
fired. TJ must have thought it was another prank by his crew when the car
wouldn't start on the first push. But a simple switch installed upside down was
the culprit, and the engine roared to life when the problem was found. The team
decided to fire the engine a second time just to be sure, and to make sure the
methanol fix was enough to last a couple more weeks!
Combining the TJ Hartman Racing crew with April Fools Day is like mixing
fertilizer with diesel fuel. It's a volatile combination with this group of
practical jokers. But with the price of diesel fuel skyrocketing, the team
figured it would be better to keep the diesel in the tow rig, and use the day to
announce some serious news.
In early February, TJ learned some news that one of his 2007 sponsors had
suffered a health issue, and that they would need to evaluate their position to
continue helping the team in 2008. Dennis Schlenz, owner of Lacey Auto
Licensing in Olympia, WA., and a long time supporter of Northwest racing teams,
has informed TJ he is ready to continue his support of the race team through the
2008 season. This is good news for the team, but more importantly, great news
that Dennis is well on the path to recovery. "I always want to have long term
relationships with my sponsors" TJ comments. "I'm very happy that Dennis has
chosen to return as our sponsor, and thankful that he is feeling better. The
Lacey Auto Licensing logo looks good on my car, and I hope it stays there for a
long time to come." Lacey Auto Licensing is located at 3520 Pacific Ave in
Olympia, WA - located inside the Albertson's store. They are open 6 days a
week, and for the past 28 years, they have been here to serve you for all of
your auto and boat licensing needs. For more information about location and
hours, click on the link
http://www.tjhartmanracing.com/sponsors.htm
The good news for TJ continues. He has been relentless in searching for support
of his race team, and his tenacity and positive attitude is paying off. TJ
Hartman Racing welcomes Rod End Supply on board as a product supply sponsor.
The Olathe, KS. based company is a well known industry supplier for many racing
parts such as radius rods, steering arms and links, torsion arms, bars and
stops, as well as rod ends like their company name signifies, plus many more
racing related parts. Rod End Supply is able to help you perform, no matter the
level you are racing at. They have parts to fit a go-cart all the way up to a
sprint car or late model. Their field expertise is backed up by their company
slogan - "We don't just sell 'em, We race 'em!" TJ adds "I'm fortunate to have
another great company like Rod End Supply supporting my race team. I look
forward to helping them keep their name at the front of the field." You can
find out more about Rod End Supply and their products offered by visiting their
web site at
www.rodendsupply.com
Perhaps the greatest satisfaction in securing a business deal, is meeting the
person face to face. Of course, when you are young and have a smile like TJ
does, it's not easy to say no either. Parts Plus of Puyallup has been the local
parts supply house for TJ Hartman Racing for parts on his race car, as well as
the families personal vehicles. Now they have teamed up with TJ on his race
team. "I like being able to go over there and talk with Cindy and her guys at
the store" TJ says with a smile. "They're easy to work with, and if they don't
have the parts I need, they get them here fast. Cindy is always joking with me
and it's fun." The Parts Plus group has been serving the automotive industry
nationwide since 1957, and the Puyallup store has been operating at their
location on Meridian for the past 15 years. You can read more about Parts Plus
by visiting their homepage at
www.PartsPlus.com or stop by the
Puyallup location at 15317 Meridian E., Suite J., in Puyallup.
You can stay up to date on all of the exciting news and new developments
by visiting TJ's web site at
www.TJHartmanRacing.com
The 2008 racing season is here, and TJ and his team are excited and ready to
go. The team thanks all of the great sponsors of TJ Hartman Racing, and
encourage you to show your enthusiasm for the team by supporting those who
support us.
Next stop - Grays Harbor Raceway in Elma!
TJ Hartman Racing
Lacey Auto Licensing
www.Rodendsupply.com
www.PartsPlus.com
A1A BuyNSell
Beckler's Mobile Welding Service
Advanced Powder Coating -
www.gopowder.com
www.BeachHutVacations.com
www.HookerHarness.com
www.Performancecoatings.com
www.Simpsonraceproducts.com
www.WesmarRacing.com
www.TJHartmanRacing.com
3/11/08
TJ Hartman Racing - UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - March 11, 2008...
The 2008 racing season is nearly upon us, and the recent warm weather in the
Northwest has TJ itching to get back in the seat of his Wesmar powered Maxim.
After a playful prank in which the TJ Hartman Racing team delivered an empty
engine crate to capture TJ's reaction on film, the new engine arrived and is now
installed, plumbed, and ready. With a new Butlerbuilt seat on the way to fit
TJ's still growing body, the attention now turns to readying the trailer for
duty.
The month of February also brought with it a few more supporters to the race
team. Advanced Powder Coating has been a long time source for coating TJ's race
car frames and panels. The Sumner, WA. business is well known for their fast,
quality service. With pickup and delivery service available, Advanced Powder
Coating is your complete source for coating solutions. You can find out more
about APC by visiting their web site at
www.gopowder.com
Adding to TJ Hartman Racing's list of product support companies, comes Simpson
Race Products. Simpson brand helmets, gloves, shoes, and fire protection
gear have been the product of choice for TJ since he started racing more than a
decade ago. "I've always liked the fit and design of Simpson helmets" TJ
states. "When I look at safety gear, I'm looking for design features that take
fire safety very seriously. When I put on my Simpson gear, I feel I've got the
best protection I can get." Find out more about Simpson Race Products by
visiting their web site at
www.Simpsonraceproducts.com
Having a product that performs well is always a priority. If that same
product is complimented by great looks, then the value is doubled. Performance
Coatings, Inc. out of Auburn, WA offers ceramic thermal barrier coatings for
internal, as well as external performance engine parts. The benefits of ceramic
coating parts exposed to high temperatures are many, including improved
performance and longer life. TJ Hartman Racing is proud to have Performance
Coatings as a product supporter for 2008. Not only will they help TJ perform
better, but his sprint car will look great too. To find out more about the
benefits of thermal coatings, visit their web site at
www.Performancecoatings.com
You can stay up on the latest news and developments of TJ Hartman Racing
by visiting his web site at
www.TJHartmanRacing.com.
We want to thank those companies who have chosen to partner with TJ, and look
forward to being a part of their success in 2008.
As always the name of the game in Puyallup, WA is "fun". Follow the lead and
see for yourself how the #19 Wesmar powered Maxim is able to bring a smile to
the faces of all that watch it run!
2/9/08
TJ Hartman Racing - UPDATE
Puyallup, WA - February 8, 2008...
As the beginning of racing season closes in, the team has been diligently
preparing to make their debut on the big track at the Grays Harbor Raceway in
Elma, WA. Five years after TJ impressed the locals with his driving talents and
fun loving personality on the quarter midget track just outside the reaches of
the pit area, he prepares to sign in for the first time as a competitor on the
big 3/8th's mile clay oval. He has scheduled 13 races at Grays Harbor, and is
currently finalizing plans to fill the remaining dates with more racing. More
to come on this as opening day draws nearer.
TJ Hartman Racing would like to thank Dennis Schlenz of Lacey Auto & Boat
Licensing for his support in 2007. Understandably, at this time, Dennis is
unable to continue with his financial support of the team. We thank him from
the bottom of our hearts, and wish him well in recovering from his recent health
issue. We are happy he was able to share in TJ's debut and win in the sprint
car under the Lacey Auto & Boat Licensing banner, and look forward to one day
meeting him in victory lane again.
Offsetting this, is the announcement of A1A BuyNSell coming on board as
an associate sponsor. The Olympia, WA based company deals in NOS and quality
used race car parts. The experience they provide has been instrumental all
along in TJ's development of racing a sprint car. TJ is looking forward to a
long, fun relationship with A1A BuyNSell. You can read more about the company
and this exciting news in the January 28th news release. Click on the following
link at:
http://www.tjhartmanracing.com/news.htm
More good news for the team is the return of Beach Hut Vacations as an associate
sponsor for 2008. The Shelton, WA based company is enthusiastically awaiting
the debut of TJ on the local track. Age limitations kept him off the Elma
facility in 2007, but now the long time supporter of TJ Hartman Racing will
finally get their chance to see him perform in front of the jubilant Beach Hut
Posse. More info on this great news can be found in the January 22nd news by
clicking on the following link at:
http://www.tjhartmanracing.com/news.htm
Dividends from TJ's trip to the Performance Racing Show in Orlando back in
December are beginning to pay off for the young driver. Part of the problem of
being such a young driver is the uncontrollable growth in the teenage years. TJ
has finally outgrown his driving suit, and just about everything else he started
new with last year. His seat, Hans device, driving suit, and shoes are all in
need of replacement for 2008. Fortunately, the opportunity he was provided in
December gave him the confidence to contact some of the safety equipment
suppliers and talk with familiar people.
Product support from racing parts manufacturers is important to any driver, and
TJ is happy to announce Hooker Harness as his first Product Support sponsor.
Hooker Harness has revolutionized the way lap belts are tightened with their
Ratchet Tightener system. Getting the belts tight is a high priority in
a safety harness system, and not always easy to do. For TJ Hartman Racing,
there was no other choice than the Hooker Harness Ratchet Tightener system. You
can read more about Hooker Harness at
www.HookerHarness.com
We saved the biggest news of January for last. As the race team set out on this
adventure, many products were looked at to incorporate into the family owned
sprint car team. Deciding what products worked best, and at the same time
offering the most value, was often times a painstaking, but educational,
experience for the young team. The lessons we learned from nine years in
quarter midgets taught us to find a reliable, top notch engine builder. From
the outset the teams sights were set on Wesmar Racing Engines. The Oklahoma
based engine building company is touted as one of the most reliable, strongest
performing, ASCS engine builders in the country. TJ Hartman Racing is proud and
confident to announce the acquisition of a Wesmar Racing ASCS 360 engine to
power TJ to the front of the pack. Owner Kelly Westphal has been extremely
helpful in guiding the young team through the process of selecting an engine.
"I can't wait to feel the power of that thing!" TJ exclaims. "Now I know it's
all on me to perform up to what the engine is capable of. I cannot thank
Marshall enough for the use of his engine last year, and this goes a long ways
toward getting our program all together in the time lines we established back in
2006. I'm excited!"
You can read more about all of this exciting news and new developments
by visiting TJ's web site. We also encourage you to learn more about the
companies that are helping TJ Hartman Racing get on the track to success in
2008. Please visit their web sites and show your support to them.
The roar of sprint cars in 2008 is almost here! Watch for the #19 Wesmar
powered Maxim to make some noise!
TJ Hartman Racing
A1A BuyNSell
www.BeachHutVacations.com
www.HookerHarness.com
www.WesmarRacing.com
www.TJHartmanRacing.com
1/28/08
A1ABuyNSell
Puyallup, WA - January 28, 2008...
TJ Hartman Racing enthusiastically welcomes A1ABuyNSell on board as an associate
sponsor for the 2008 racing season.
The Olympia, WA based company has a vast experience in filling the niche market
of used and NOS racing parts. With an inventory of everything from the latest
innovation, to the hardest to find vintage part, A1ABuyNSell utilizes two
generations and over 50 years of combined racing experience to fill the
customers needs.
A1ABuyNSell has the experience to understand the racers needs. "Maximizing the
racers hard earned dollar, without sacrificing safety, is our goal." states
owner Marshall Schlenz. "TJ is a young racer who came to us seeking advice, and
his commitment to understanding all of the aspects of the sport encouraged us to
get involved with him." In the new era of off the shelf racers, it's
easy to simply call someone up, place an order, and wait for the truck to pull
up in the driveway. "TJ brought a bit of the old school mentality with him.
The day of the racer who builds his own cars is going by the way side. It's
refreshing to see a racer interested in how a car works, and a driver who
understands the value of the parts underneath him. TJ fits that bill."
"I have actually been working with A1ABuyNSell for some time now." states TJ
Hartman. "When we started getting involved with the sprint cars, it was
important that I learn all of the aspects of the cars, and that included knowing
the value of the parts. Working with A1ABuyNSell I developed a good
understanding of what things cost." A small, family based racing team needs to
make every dollar go as far as it can, and utilizing a market of good, safe, and
reliable pre-owned parts can stretch that dollar even further. TJ explains
further "Learning the value of racing parts was the easy part. But the most
important thing I learned from sorting through bins of parts was how to inspect
the pieces. Having the parts in my hands, and learning how they differed from
one manufacturer to the next, I was able to understand what makes one part
better, or safer, than another."
Whether you are looking for that hard to find part, working on a tight budget,
or looking to sell your racing program, A1ABuyNSell is there to help with all of
your racing needs. And with fast, reliable shipping to service the customer,
they could be the difference of being on the track, or staying in the trailer.
Over 50 years of racing experience!
Olympia, WA
(360)280-3236
1/22/08
Beach Hut Vacations
Puyallup, WA - January 22, 2008...
TJ Hartman Racing welcomes back Beach Hut Vacations as an associate sponsor for
the 2008 racing season.
The Shelton, WA based travel agency takes pride in being known as a trustworthy
travel consultant. With over 12 years in vacation and cruise planning
experience, they understand how to help you achieve the greatest possible
benefit from your travels. Beach Hut consultants act as your personal travel
planners, and working for you is their number one priority.
At Beach Hut Vacations you will not find the traditional travel agent. Working
from their own storefront in Shelton, they are held accountable to the traveler
as well as the local community. "We understand the
importance of value in a dollar." comments owner Greg Burgess. "We work hard to
make sure the best possible value is there when deciding on your next travel
destination. We back that up with dedicated customer service, so you can feel
comfortable knowing your dreams and needs have been met." Teaming up with TJ
Hartman Racing was a natural choice for the Beach Hut Vacations staff. Burgess
adds: "We recognized TJ as a strong, dedicated leader, with a great sense of
commitment to presenting himself as organized and professional. This type of
dedication makes TJ a natural fit to represent Beach Hut Vacations."
"We have known Greg and Tina for some time now from racing in Elma." comments TJ
Hartman. "When we first met, it was on a vacation they booked for us. I found
out quickly how fun it was to be involved with Beach Hut Vacations." A desire
to smile and have some laughs is something everyone has in common. TJ goes on:
"When we decided to step up to this level of racing, I knew we needed to learn
more about marketing. Greg was right there with us, and showed us how important
it is to present yourself in a positive manner, and the importance of value to
the client. Having fun with the Beach Hut group is just another bonus we get
from being involved with them."
Need help planning your next cruise or vacation? Call on the travel consultants
with the commitment to providing you dedicated service for the long term.
Beach Hut Vacations
888-427-9662
360-427-8322
WWW.Beachhutvacations.com
travel@beachhutvacations.com
1/3/08
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12/13/07
TJ Hartman Racing to PRI
Puyallup, WA - December 13, 2007 ...
TJ took the opportunity to attend the Performance Racing Industry trade show in
Orlando, FL December 6,7,& 8, 2007. As he looks to advance his interest in the
racing industry, this was a great opportunity to familiarize himself with the
people, products, and services in the field. Over 1,400 exhibitors were on hand
to display their products for the racing industry in a 1,000,000 square foot
facility, with more than 45,000 buyers and industry representives converging on
the Orange County Convention Center to preview the latest advances in racing
technology and products.
The road to the top begins with knowledge gained from understanding all of the
aspects of the racing industry. The PRI trade show is where all of that
knowledge is put under one roof and displayed for inquisitive minds to absorb.
TJ talks about the goals he set to take out of the show. "This was a good
experience for me to learn to open up and talk with people. I learned a lot,
and met some cool people. I had a great time." TJ also would like to
express his gratitude to MPD Racing and friends for the opportunity to attend
this years show in Orlando. "John and Pattie were very helpful. Everyone I
talked with was very friendly and willing to share their stories and advice."
You can learn more about the PRI trade show and MPD Racing, along with updates
on TJ Hartman, by clicking on the following links. We wish each of you a Happy
and Joyous Holiday Season.
TJ Hartman Racing
www.Performanceracing.com/tradeshow/
www.MPDRacing.com
www.TJHartmanRacing.com
11/24/07
TJ's Interview Part 3
TJ Hartman -
the T stands for Tyler. His mom wanted a TJ, but stated that one Ted in this
world was enough for everybody. What did she mean by that? In part 3 we unveil
that Tyler J Hartman has some unique personality traits. He has not, does not,
and will not ever, eat cake. Not even for his own birthday. He doesn't like
it. We're not sure how he would know that, as he has never tried it - cake that
is. He prefers "cupcakes". He says they're different. He insists they're not
"cake", and he is perfectly content to go without "cake" on his birthdays so
others can enjoy the tradition of cake and ice cream.
Who can hit the softest? TJ. He ALWAYS wins too. "Because that's what you're
supposed to do". Doesn't even matter who goes first, he'll win. How could
anybody be so silly as to TRY and hit hard in the game who can hit the softest?
It's an easy win, and one that he still celebrates each victory. Oh, he has
tried to lose, but his conscience always gets the best of him the minute he sees
someone celebrate their victory, and he instantly demands a rematch. The jury
is still out on whether or not TJ is really that competitive, or just that nice
of a kid.
He has shown indications of both. For those who don't yet know him very well,
he is hard to read. Always appearing calm and relaxed, it is hard to figure out
if he is ever excited or nervous. Although his quiet demeanor dominates his
personality, he has always risen to any challenge. Just before he is pushed
off, I use the same words to encourage him every time. Do what you know how to
do. Have fun.
He could never imagine eating cake or hitting someone hard. He would also never
allow anyone to convince him that cupcakes are really cake, and to win at who
can hit the softest actually requires him to hit hard. Believe me, we've tried
to convince him. He won't have any of it. He knows what is right, and he also
knows what he wants. The only thing about TJ that has changed since the first
day he climbed in a race car, is the size of the clothes that he wears. Oh,
and his hair is longer (his mother likes it that way). But the attitude, the
fortitude, the dedication, and the smile, are all exactly as they were a little
more than ten years ago now. One would think I would have known all of that
after all this time.
Follow along as we discover the importance of consistency and planning in TJ's
life. We also come to the realization that this skinny freckled face kid with
glasses isn't so easily manipulated.
Here are his thoughts - enjoy.
CA: With the no
cake rule in effect, what are your plans for wedding day?
TJ: (laughing) A
whole bunch of cupcakes! I don't plan on getting married anytime soon though.
Maybe when I'm 20 something. Probably 10 years or so.
CA: OK - back to
the important stuff then. You live in the same house, sleep in the same room,
comb your hair in the same mirror, and look out the same windows at the same
trees, as the day we brought you home from the hospital. What does that tell
you? What does that mean to you?
TJ: It tells me that
we didn't move back to Indiana! (laughing) But I think it was better that we
don't move around a whole bunch like other people do. It's good to know your
surroundings, so you don't have to worry about something new all the time.
CA: So for a kid who values consistency in his life, why the infatuation
with racing where you need to constantly adjust to different surroundings?
TJ: Because I like
seeing new tracks, and meeting new people, but I like to go home. (giggling)
I'm not sure what it is about racing. I tried some other sports, like
basketball and baseball, but it wasn't the same. Racing is just more fun, and
they never passed me the ball anyway, so ...(laughing)
CA: This past year
you got a small dose of racing with a wing and without. Explain how, and why
this plan came about.
TJ: There wasn't even
a plan to really race, just to get the cars ready for the 2008 season. We ended
up with the wing car being basically ready, and our friend said he would let us
use his motor, so we decided to schedule a few races. We decided we should try
a few races away from my home track, just so I could feel more comfortable
without any distractions. We went to Madras to run with the wing, and it was
easy for me to focus on the driving. We came home and finished the other car,
because I wanted to try a few races without the wing. We found out I couldn't
run with the Oregon group because of my age, so we called some people in
California and they said to come down. That was a big step for me.
CA: Now that you
have made the jump straight from quarter midgets into sprint cars, what are your
thoughts on this? Should you have tried an intermediate step,
like mini-sprints, or something else?
TJ: We could have
tried mini-sprints, but there wasn't a track close to us that would work.
Deming races on Friday, and that wouldn't work. I think the quarter midgets
were really challenging, because of the fast lap times that we go. Your
reaction time has to be really fast in quarter midgets, and I think that helped
me get in the sprint car.
CA: Nine years in
quarter midgets, hundreds of races, tires that are old and hard,
incompetent crew chief, and maybe five spinout's total on your own. Four races
in a sprint car, four spins. Comments?
TJ: (sheepish grin)
(long pause with a giggle) Maybe I wasn't trying hard enough in the quarter
midgets? The reason I kept spinning in the sprint car is because of the
brakes. We don't use those in the quarter midget very much, and that was
something new for me to learn.
CA: We see you coming down the back stretch heading straight at us. I know
what I'm thinking because I can taste it in my mouth as I'm curled over. What
is going through your mind?
TJ: Well I'm not looking at you! (laughing) I'm thinking about making sure I
hit my marks so I don't mess up. There is a lot more time to think about it in
the sprint car than the quarter midget and I know I'm going a lot faster but the
track is so much bigger, it's just something I have to get used to.
CA: When I was in school, I would have been horrified to have my teacher or
school principal interested in my extra curricular activities. It just wasn't
cool. You're different. Can you explain that?
TJ: Well I told my
friends about racing, and then everyone ended up knowing about it - including
the teachers and my principal. A teacher, who I never had a class with, heard
about me and told one of my friends to come in and see her, because she wanted
to talk about racing. She even knew what sprint cars are! That made it easy to
talk about it. It makes me feel good that they're interested in racing. My
grade school principal and a teacher even came down to watch a quarter midget
race. That was surprising, but it was cool.
CA: Describe
yourself off the track.
TJ: I'm kind of
quiet. I like watching Spongebob. I like school, and talking with friends.
Math is my favorite subject because it's challenging. I take an advanced
class. I don't have to have things even, like you dad! (laughing) I'm
beginning to enjoy talking with people who I don't know. I never used to be
like that, so it's kind of interesting.
CA: Do you think
you're a different person once you put the helmet on?
TJ: No. Off the
track I treat people and act the same as when I'm on the track. I just try to
stay calm all the time. That way I won't make mistakes - at least I try not to.
CA: Describe your style of driving.
TJ: I take things
slow and work my way to the point I'm comfortable. I don't throw the car around
- I just try to be smooth. (laughing) Sometimes that hard to do on a rough
track.
CA: Is there
anything about racing that stands out in your mind where you find yourself
amazed, or maybe hesitant about? Or do you simply envision yourself with the
capability to do whatever it is that you're seeing?
TJ: Every time we've
watched a sprint car race, you always ask me if I could do that, and I say yes.
I just feel confident. We were at Eldora one year and I walked down to the
fence and the track was straight down. When I saw the cars going around the
track I said "I can do that".
CA: This leads me into something that only you and I, and a few people close
to us know about, but I want you to talk about it now. We asked you to write
out some goals and ambitions following your last race this year. In that, one
of the things we asked was for you to state your desires on where you would like
to race. One of the places you listed was Indiana. Having been there in the
quarter midgets, and knowing the significance of open wheel racing back there,
it is easily understandable that this would be on your list. When your mother
and I sat down and talked about this, we came to a decision that we would uproot
and move back there. Then you turned it down. My question to you is - why?
TJ: I actually meant
I wanted to be there in a couple of years. I know I'm not ready for that yet.
This is just my first year of racing, so I want to make sure that when I do go
back there I'm ready. I always wanted to race at Elma. That's where I raced
quarter midgets, and that's where I met a lot of friends at the big track. I
don't like to take big steps, and I think going to Indiana would be a really big
step right now.
CA: Do you have a
set goal to achieve before you make that move, or is it something you'll know
when you feel it?
TJ: No, it's just
something I'll know when I get there. When I'm ready, I'll go.
CA: OK, so tie
this into TJ Hartman - the kid who gets a tummy ache when they change the lunch
room around.
TJ: (giggling) I
don't like big changes, and I'm mostly over that lunch room thing now. I don't
know why they wouldn't let us sit wherever we want.
CA: I heard a
young driver make a statement in his interview that the particular race he was
at that weekend was the first time he was racing without his dad present. His
dad was at home and couldn't make the trip. This got me thinking about you and
I. Can you foresee a time when I'm not there to offer my awe inspiring wisdom
in person?
TJ: (laughing) I'm not sure because that's never happened yet. But there's
gonna be a time when you don't have to be there dad. But I'm not gonna fire
you.
CA: The Federal Government outlaws peanut butter. What do you do?
TJ: I guess I would
become an outlaw. I'm not giving up my peanut butter - or jelly.
CA: Your
sister brings home a boyfriend. What do you do?
TJ: I keep a close
eye on him, like go on their dates with them and stuff (laughing), and I guess
if he's OK, then I ask him to scrape some mud.
CA: You can't do
both. Knoxville Nationals or the Oval Nationals?
TJ: Well, Knoxville I
guess because its first. Then I find a ride for the Oval Nationals!
CA: The Front Row
Challenge. Do you take it?
TJ: Ya!
CA: Where is TJ Hartman headed in his life?
TJ: Wherever there is
racing. I do want to go to college. I want to race some non-wing, and then
just see how far it goes.
CA: Describe any
obstacles that you think will stand in your way of achieving your goals and
dreams.
TJ: We had to write about this in school, and I didn't think there was any
obstacles that would get in my way, so that's what I put.
CA: If you can't be TJ Hartman, who would you be and why?
TJ: I wouldn't want
to be anybody else. I'm happy with the way I am.
CA: What could I
do as a parent to discourage you from racing?
TJ: I guess if you weren't interested in it. It wouldn't be the same if you
weren't there to help. I guess I better not fire you huh? (laughing)
CA: Give us one thing that you do not like about racing.
TJ: The people who don't make it fun. Everything else I like.
CA: Give me the one question you want to be asked.
TJ: (smile) Just any
question about what is fun in racing.
CA: Aside from the
things you have learned in and about the car, give us the one thing that racing
has taught you that you think will stay with you for the rest of your life.
TJ: Well, it would be what you said that we have lots of time to be an adult.
I guess I realized that after I drove the sprint car and now I'm not a kid
anymore. But I still like Spongebob.
CA: Send a
message. What do you want the world to know about TJ Hartman's innermost
thoughts, dreams, ambitions, e
