Tanner Thorson and Shaylee Smith-Thorson exemplify the power of passion, perseverance, and family support in achieving success
From their individual accomplishments on the track to their heartwarming moments as a family, the Thorsons’ story resonates with fans and serves as an inspiration for aspiring racers.
Tanner Thorson’s journey in dirt-track racing is a testament to his talent, determination, and love for the sport.
From his 2016 Chili Bowl Nationals championship to his brief foray into NASCAR, Thorson has consistently demonstrated a willingness to embrace challenges and grow as a driver.
His candid reflections on pole position racing provide a glimpse into the complexities of the sport and the mindset required to excel.
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Table of Contents
Dirt Racer Tanner Thorson: Family
Dirt racing enthusiasts were recently treated to a heartwarming glimpse into the personal life of Tanner Thorson, a celebrated dirt racer.1
His wife, Shaylee Smith-Thorson, shared a heartfelt Instagram post featuring their four-year-old daughter, Blakelee Rae Thorson, alongside Tanner during the third day of the Chili Bowl Nationals.
This simple yet touching moment underscored the importance of family support in a high-octane sport like dirt racing. Let’s delve into the lives of this racing family and their contributions to the world of motorsports.
Born and raised in Fargo, North Dakota, Shaylee Smith-Thorson is no stranger to the dirt racing world. The daughter of renowned dirt racer Steve Smith, Shaylee grew up immersed in the sport.
Her talent behind the wheel became evident early on, as she quickly established herself as a prodigy in midget car racing. Competing in the USAC Midget Series, Shaylee amassed numerous victories and earned the respect of her peers.
Only 4 days left to get your 2025 @cbnationals shirt and hoodies online!🤘https://t.co/TRjGisiTzo pic.twitter.com/ejLKWWa8AJ
— Tanner Thorson (@Tanner_Thorson) January 10, 2025
Life Beyond Racing
- While her racing career brought her fame, Shaylee’s personal life took center stage when she married Tanner Thorson.
- The couple’s bond has been strengthened by their shared passion for racing, creating a partnership rooted in mutual understanding and support.
- Today, Shaylee balances her roles as a mother, wife, and former racer, showcasing her ability to excel in various aspects of life.
- The Instagram post shared by Shaylee during the Chili Bowl Nationals captured a special moment for the Thorson family.
- Dressed casually yet stylishly, Shaylee sported a white hoodie, gray jeans, and red sneakers, exuding an approachable charm.
- Meanwhile, young Blakelee wore a baby pink T-shirt emblazoned with her father’s car number, #88, paired with blue denim jeans and pink checkered sneakers. Tanner, donning his red racing jersey, completed the picture-perfect family scene.
- This heartwarming post highlighted the importance of family in Tanner’s racing journey. As he prepared for the high-stakes Chili Bowl Nationals, the support of Shaylee and Blakelee provided him with emotional strength and motivation.
- For fans, these glimpses into the personal lives of racers humanize their heroes, reminding everyone of the people who stand behind the scenes.
Tanner Thorson: Rising Star in Dirt Racing
Early Beginnings
Tanner Thorson’s journey into the world of dirt racing began at a young age. Hailing from Minden, Nevada, Tanner developed a passion for motorsports early on and quickly rose through the ranks.2
His natural talent and determination set him apart, paving the way for a successful career in midget car racing.
Tanner’s victory at the Chili Bowl Nationals—where he dethroned three-time champion Christopher Bell to win Thursday’s A-Main event—was a testament to his skill and perseverance.
Reflecting on his win, Tanner expressed his thoughts about starting races and shared insights into aspects of racing he finds challenging. His honesty and humility endeared him to fans and fellow competitors alike.
A Racing Icon
Shaylee’s father, Steve Smith, has left an indelible mark on dirt racing. As a prominent figure in the sport, Steve’s achievements inspired countless young racers, including his daughter.
His legacy continues to influence the next generation of drivers, serving as a benchmark for excellence.
Steve’s role as a mentor extended beyond his family, as he nurtured aspiring racers and helped them achieve their potential.
His contributions to dirt racing remain a source of pride for the Smith-Thorson family, reinforcing the importance of passing down knowledge and passion through generations.
A Strong Support System
In the high-pressure world of dirt racing, a supportive family can make all the difference. For Tanner, Shaylee, and Blakelee, their close-knit bond provides a foundation of strength and stability.
This support enables Tanner to focus on his racing career while knowing his family is always there for him.
The Thorsons’ story offers valuable lessons for aspiring racers and their families. Balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities requires dedication, teamwork, and effective communication.
By prioritizing these values, the Thorsons have created a harmonious dynamic that fuels their success.
Tanner Thorson: Community and Connection
Engaging with Fans
The Thorsons’ willingness to share glimpses of their personal lives has endeared them to fans worldwide.3
Through social media and public appearances, they foster a sense of connection and community within the dirt racing world. This approach not only strengthens their fanbase but also promotes the sport to new audiences.
As successful racers, Tanner and Shaylee understand the importance of giving back. Whether mentoring young drivers or supporting charitable initiatives, they strive to make a positive impact both on and off the track.
Their efforts exemplify the values of generosity and sportsmanship that define the racing community.
The Future of Dirt Racing
With racers like Tanner and Shaylee leading the charge, the future of dirt racing looks bright.
Their passion and dedication inspire the next generation of drivers, ensuring the sport’s continued growth and evolution.
In addition to their individual achievements, the Thorsons contribute to the broader advancement of dirt racing.
By embracing innovation, advocating for safety, and promoting inclusivity, they help shape a more dynamic and sustainable future for the sport.
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Tanner Thorson on Qualifying for the Pole Position
Tanner Thorson, a renowned driver in dirt-track racing, recently opened up about his polarizing feelings toward pole position racing during an interview with Sportsnaut reporter Matt Weaver.
The #88 Midget car driver, who clinched a victory at the Chili Bowl Nationals on Thursday, shared insights into his mindset, career highlights, and the challenges of the sport.
Thorson’s illustrious career in dirt-track racing has been marked by numerous milestones. Competing in elite series such as the United States Auto Club (USAC) and World of Outlaws, Thorson solidified his reputation with exceptional performances and a competitive spirit.
A major highlight was his 2016 Chili Bowl Nationals championship, where he outpaced Christopher Bell, one of his fiercest rivals, to secure the title.
In that championship year, Thorson amassed an impressive 17 wins, demonstrating consistency and skill on the track. His success in dirt-track racing eventually opened doors to NASCAR, where he competed in the Craftsman Truck Series in 2018. Despite a brief stint with just 11 races, Thorson’s transition showcased his versatility and ambition.
Mastering a “Tricky” Track
During his interview with Matt Weaver, Thorson delved into the nuances of the Chili Bowl Nationals and the technical challenges of its track.
“I think it’s important, especially right now. The track is very tricky. It’s very technical, and I think starting on the front row is something I’m not particularly comfortable with,” he admitted.
For Thorson, the dynamics of dirt-track racing involve adapting to ever-changing conditions and mastering techniques to maintain an edge.
While many drivers covet the pole position for its strategic advantage, Thorson’s candid admission of discomfort reveals a deeper complexity in his approach.
Thorson’s aversion to starting on the front row stems from his preference for a more strategic racing position. “I really actually hate it more than anything,” he confessed.
This sentiment might seem counterintuitive to casual observers, but seasoned drivers understand the pressures and risks associated with being a “sitting duck” at the front.
Leading the pack makes drivers susceptible to attacks from behind, particularly in a race as competitive as the Chili Bowl Nationals. Thorson’s strategy often involves leveraging his skills to outmaneuver competitors from a less conspicuous starting position.
Tanner Thorson: Rivalry with Christopher Bell
Christopher Bell has long been a formidable opponent for Thorson. Their rivalry dates back to their early days in dirt-track racing and has become a defining feature of their careers.
In 2016, Thorson edged out Bell to claim the Chili Bowl Nationals championship, a victory that remains a career-defining moment.
Bell’s impressive resume includes multiple Chili Bowl titles and success in NASCAR’s Cup Series. Competing against a driver of Bell’s caliber pushes Thorson to elevate his game and fuels the competitive spirit that defines the sport.
In addition to Bell, Thorson has raced alongside other legends of the sport. Kyle Larson, another Chili Bowl champion, and NASCAR stars Kyle Busch and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. bring immense talent and experience to the competition.
Sharing the track with such accomplished drivers offers valuable learning opportunities and challenges Thorson to continually refine his craft.
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The Mental Game of Racing
Beyond physical skills, dirt-track racing demands mental fortitude. The pressure of high-stakes events like the Chili Bowl Nationals can test a driver’s focus and resilience. Thorson’s candid reflections on his pole position discomfort highlight the psychological complexity of the sport.
Maintaining composure under pressure, making split-second decisions, and managing the unpredictability of dirt-track conditions are all part of the mental game. Thorson’s ability to navigate these challenges has been instrumental in his success.
As Thorson continues to compete at the highest levels of dirt-track racing, his focus remains on pushing boundaries and achieving new milestones. Whether it’s refining his performance on the track or exploring new opportunities, he remains committed to his craft.
While his NASCAR venture may be behind him, Thorson’s passion for dirt-track racing shows no signs of waning. Fans can expect to see him competing fiercely in USAC and World of Outlaws events, as well as future editions of the Chili Bowl Nationals.
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