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| From entrepreneur to off-road racer, Phoenix man feels no fear! |
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Successful business owner to join his father in Baja 1000 off-road race this weekend, November 21-23 in Baja, Mexico.
Contact: Chad Ragland
602-695-1100
Digital photos available
Phoenix, Ariz. - Chad Ragland, Phoenix native, experienced entrepreneur of three successful business ventures and veteran motorcycle racer is about to embark on the biggest adventure of his young life. This Thursday, November 20 through November 23, Chad and his father, Larry Ragland, will be joining hundreds of other drivers in Baja, Mexico for the SCORE International Baja 1000 off-road race.
Chad began motorcycle riding when he was just 11 and opened his first business, Mountain Jam when he was all of 21. He's now the co-owner of Your Source Financial in central Phoenix. Although he's raced in a few smaller off-road truck races, this year's Baja 1000 will be his first big race. "There are some very definite parallels between starting a business and racing," commented Chad, "first is the ability to overcome fear. I'm not sure which is scarier, racing or owning your own business!" he added.
This is also the first major race in which Chad has joined his father as co-driver. Larry, a veteran racer of 23 years, and 5 overall first place finishes in the Baja 1000, is looking forward to racing with his son for the first time. "This is an important and exciting race for me because it's the first race I've done with my son, Chad, as my co-driver," Larry said. With over 220 of the world's top drivers competing in 24 Pro and 5 Sportsman classes for cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATV's, and with Mario Andretti as the grand marshall, this year's race looks to be an exciting one for everyone.
"I have to say that I'm nervous and very excited," added Chad, "There is so much time, money, and energy put into this race months before it starts." Adding to the excitement and coverage of this year's race is the fact that a documentary film is being about it. "And the fact that Mario Andretti is waving the green flag is awesome. It's a great honor for me," Chad said.
The Ragland's race team includes drivers Larry and Chad Ragland, as well as 25 crew members to keep the truck running smoothly throughout the race. The team is sponsored by BFGoodrich Tires, AEM Brute Force Intake and Your Source Financial. Larry will be driving a Chevy Silverado and will turn over the driving to Chad for the middle section of the race to give him a strategic break.
The approximately 14-1/2 hour race begins at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, November 21.
In addition to the Ragland's, entries have come from 26 U.S. states, Mexico, Canada, Japan, Guatemala, France, Brazil and Uruguay. For more information about the Baja 1000 and Ragland Racing, please call Chad Ragland at 602-695-1100 or visit www.raglandracing.com
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