Michael Dabney, Jr. is a 17-year old Legend Car racer from Crandall, Texas. Michael, who has been racing since he was 7, is a senior at Crandall High School. While others in Texas might hit the football field on Saturday night, you can usually find this devoted racer at the race track – usually one of the first to cross the finish line.
Michael had a very successful career as a go-kart racer, but after five years felt the need for “something new, faster, and more adrenalin pumping.” He and his dad certainly found that when they purchased his first Legend Car in 2001. Michael and his dad “really had no idea what we were getting into but both of us were willing to make that sacrifice and do whatever we could in order to get one step closer to hopefully on day racing on Sunday afternoon with some of my idols such as Jeff Gordon or Dale Earnhardt, Jr.”
Since he started racing Legend Cars, Michael has continued to be a competitor to watch. In 2005 and 2006, he had a combined total of 28 wins, including the Winter Series Championship in 2005 and back-to-back Summer Series Championships. Michael was the Texas Series Champion in 2006. Michael is proud of his accomplishments at the track, but knows he didn’t get where he is today without some help along the way. Michael says, “I couldn’t have accomplished any of this without the help of my dad.” He would also like to thank Don Brown and PGG for their sponsorship the past three years as well as YRA Founder/President Gayle Lutyk and YRA Executive Board member Bob Lutyk for their personal help with getting him get to the nationals the last few years.
In Michael’s own words, he says, “The thing I enjoy most about racing is getting to be with everyone at the track. I love how everyone is good friends off the track and serious competitors on.” Isn’t this really what it’s all about? YRA is proud to sponsor Michael and know he’ll continue to be winner – both on and off the track!