In The O’Brien Book, “Final Chapter Not Written… Just Yet”
Dennis O’Brien, son of popular NEMA car owner, the late Jim O’Brien, will campaign a NEMA Lite entry for the full 2014 racing season. Elder brother of current NEMA driver, Matt O’Brien, Dennis will bring his life long racing experiences to the New England racing club with enthusiasm and a ton of resources.
This Deerfield, NH resident, and UPS driver, has sold his entire Dwarf racing team and has purchased a Stealth chassis and is currently installing a Ford Focus engine. He will be putting forth a top notch effort in the very competitive Lite division. Dennis is quick to point out that the O’Brien’s are a “racing family” and that will continue with sons DJ 19, and Mitchell 14, working the pits and brother Chris acting as car owner who will also overlook the finances. “Chris will handle his duties far away from the track as he doesn’t get his hands dirty”, Dennis points out with a laugh.
“Our father gave us the opportunity to get involved in racing at early ages and we just couldn’t get enough.” Dennis explains. “We were always at the track and at the shop with him and he taught us well through the years.” Starting his driving career in 1994 in stock cars, Dennis moved to mini-stocks and super streets then eventually to Dwarf cars. He explains, “I will heavily lean on brother Matt’s vast midget experience and he is fully behind this effort.”
Even though the color of the car has not been finalized, “The number will be 16 and the words, “Jim O’Brien & Sons Engineering” will be on the side as is the case with all the O’Brien racing machines.”
When pressed to reveal his 2014 goals, Dennis says with confidence, “Immediately, we want top 10’s, by mid season some top 5’s and ultimately a podium finish and a trophy by years end.” He has been a track champion at Lee Speedway in the 4 cylinder division, he considers the up coming season a challenge. We are “determined to succeed,” even at tracks like Star and Monadnock, where he has also turned many laps.
Dennis pointed out in closing that “Dad loved racing and loved to share it with his boys, and….. The Final Chapter Not Written… Just Yet”.
Sources:Bill Van Slyke/NEMA PR