Racing isn't just a hobby,

but way of life for one local

BY: Ryan Bailey

The News Herald

CONNELLY SPRINGS - To an outsider it may appear that racing is just a hobby for Ashley Huffman and his family. But speak to anyone and you will realize that racing is less of a hobby and more a way of life.

 This past October, Ashley Huffman, gained prestige by taking first place at the Hickory Motor Speedway racing in the United Auto Racing Association (UARA) STARS Tour. Huffman, 24 has been racing since 1998 when he was first old enough to drive and has been following the sport his entire life.

 However, Huffman is not a first generation racecar enthusiast. Huffman's grandfather, Frank Wilson first got involved in racing in the 1950s and 60s. Years later, it was Wilson who got his son-in-law Dwight Huffman into the sport.

 Dwight, in turn, spent years working in racing only to have two sons Davie and Ashley get involved in the sport.

 Although the name Dwight Huffman may not be well known outside of the local racing circles, he has worked with some of the most well-known racers in the sport. Huffman casually speaks of Jimmy Spencer, Morgan Shepherd and Dennis Setzer as former racers he has worked with.

 With his father's successes and knowledge of the sport, it was only natural that Ashley would race under his father's management and tutelage. Huffman began racing late model cars in the Limited Sports division in 1999 and found early success with 15 top-five finishes and one win.

 With the creation of UARA STARS three years ago, Huffman began to get involved in the 16 race season which features the same late model cars but with different motors from the ones used in the Limited Sports division.

 Despite the success Ashley and Dwight have experienced, the cost of racing far exceeds the payout for a victory.

 Dwight Huffman estimated the yearly expenses for racing at $100 thousand dollars. Hence, racing  is a labor of love for the Huffman family rather than a profitable pass-time.

 Even with sponsorships and support from local businesses like Connelly Springs' Knob Pawn and Trade and Hildebran's Accent Signs, many expenses are paid by the Huffman's themselves.

However for Dwight Huffman's success in the sport does not come with monetary gain as much as seeing fans enjoy the sport. "We can't race without people in the grandstands," said Huffman. "Race fans are the best, they just get all tore up over racing and that is great to have. I'll be happy if we can fill the stands every race."

When asked about success in the sport, Ashley Huffman was quick to thank the people that made racing possible. "I want to mention my brother Davie and Bill Crutchfield. They put their hearts into it just so it will work. I couldn't make it if Davie wasn't there and Bill started helping me a little over a year ago."

Ashley and the rest of his family are looking forward to the start of the 2005 UARA season. The first race is at Hickory Motor Speedway on March 19.