Third Generation Driver Brent Sweet Makes SK Modified Debut
Waterford, CT -- After his first few laps in a Legends school at the Waterford Speedbowl, 16-year old Brent Sweet knew there was something special about the
The family’s third generation of participation begins when Brent attempts to qualify for the SK-150, the centerpiece of the season-opening 12th annual Budweiser Modified Nationals on April 12-13. The weekend also includes extra-distance races for the NASCAR Whelen All American Series Late Models, Sportsman, and Mini Stocks. The NEMA Midgets, NEMA Lites, Legends, AllStar Race Trucks, Pro4 Modifieds, and Allison Legacy Cars are also part of the festivities.
Brent is the grandson of Bill Sweet Sr., the legendary “Norwalk Nightrider.” Sweet annexed two championships and over 40 wins in the Daredevil division back in the 1960s. Brent’s father Bill Jr. competed in the Super Stock division in the 1980’s. The team is called “Third Generation Racing” and for good reason.
He brings an impressive Go-Kart resume to the SK division. Starting at age eight, his accomplishments include victories at local venues as well as with the prestigious New England Pavement Series, one of the top Kart tours in the Northeast.
A student at Monroe’s Masuk High, the youngest Sweet is realistic about his goals in the Speedbowl’s premier division.
“I realize it’s a big step,” he says. “We’re going to take it slow at first, and try to learn as much about the division as we can. I want to become known as a driver that other competitors are not afraid to race side-by-side with. A lot of it has to do with earning respect and trust. I’m hoping that my experience in the Karts will ease the learning curve a little. Still, I know it’s going to be different from what I’m accustomed to. As long as I give it a 100 percent effort, it’ll be OK no matter how the season ends-up. I’m not out to set the world on fire yet”.
The team comes to the Speedbowl with several sponsors, some who have been there since his Karting days. Lanni Construction and Greg’s Carting of New Canaan, as wellas Lametta Construction will be among the names adorning Sweet’s white # 7 entry.
“The car, a 1996 Troyer, is actually a former Bob Horn-owned racer,” states Brent’s father and crew chief. “Bob is a former racer and an old family friend from my dad’s days. Ronnie Silk won a race with it, so it’s given us a good place to start.” Petit Racing Engines will power the Cavalier-bodied racer.
“We’d actually planned on running last year, but due to a couple of set-backs we had to wait,” continues Bill Jr. “ It really worked out better because it has given Brent a chance to take a more hands-on approach in getting the equipment ready. He’s learning the mechanical end of an SK right now. “
It will be a family affair, something that is almost commonplace at the Speedbowl.
“My grandparents, my parents and my friends are and always have been very supportive,” says Brent. “It was rare when any of my family missed a race in my Karting days. I expect it’ll be the same with the SK’s. It’s part of the fun of racing for me.”
In the Legends car, Brent was well aware of what happened before him at the Speedbowl. “I’m really excited to be racing at a place that was so much a part of my family’s life for so many years,” he sums up. “It really does mean a great deal to me."
Sources: Dave Dykes/Waterford Speedbowl PR