RPW’s “The Ten” With Brett Gilmore

Column By: RYAN HILL / RPW – FLEETWOOD, PA – Third generation driver Brett Gilmore straps in for today’s installment of RPW’s “THE TEN”. Brett calls Grandview Speedway home, and that is where he can be found behind the wheel of his Bicknell Chassis 358 Modified.

1- WHY ARE YOU #7?
Well, for three generations the #7 has been well known to be the Gilmore car. I was originally #00 for Buzzie Reutimann, but as I moved up I took the family number to continue the tradition.

2- WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST RACING MOMENT?
Winning at our home track, and having my Dad and Grandfather there watch me win. My Dad gave me a hug and my Grandfather, who is not easily impressed, shook my hand and told me good job. That tops my list, to be able to join my family on the win list.

3- WHAT IS YOUR MOST EMBARRASSING RACING MOMENT?
I was leading a feature my rookie year, there was five laps to go, but since I run the bottom I hit the side guard rail and lost a tire.

4- WHO WAS YOUR FAVORITE DRIVER BEFORE YOU BECAME A DRIVER?
Of course my father Kenny Gilmore was always one of my favorites, but other than him Jeff Strunk is my favorite. Jeff is good in anything he drives; he always races clean and knows how to run Grandview. He is one of the only drivers I would let drive my car; I have that much respect for him.

5- MONEY ASIDE, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DRIVE?
I have had a soft spot for Rally Cars. Those guys have nerves of steel, and so much talent. I would love to go through Rally Monte Carlo in an old Audi Quattro S1 car.

6- WHAT TRACK IS A BUCKET LIST TRACK FOR YOU TO RACE AT?
All the tracks that I would have wanted to race have closed down, like Dorney Park Speedway, Syracuse, Penn National and a few others. If I had to pick one that is open, I would say The Dirt Track at Charlotte.

7- HOW DID YOU START RACING?
I started when I was 5 years old at a small road course in Topton called Oreville Cart Club. I raced go karts for ten years.

8- WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTHS AS A DRIVER?
I am very patient and can run next to someone without touching for laps. I can also see the fast lane before I even take the green, but most importantly I think before I do things. I won’t run anyone over.

9- WHAT ARE YOUR WEAKNESSES AS A DRIVER?
I am way too nice. I won’t move someone; I will end up behind them until they mess up. Sometimes that will cost me spots, but I would rather have the respect.

10- WHAT IS THE ONE RACE YOU WOULD LIKE TO WIN THE MOST?
It would have to be the Freedom 76er. My grandfather won it before it was even named the The 76er. Winning the biggest race at Grandview would be awesome.

Brett wanted to add that he is very thankful for having awesome people who support him, and having great fans have helped him in countless ways over the years. And special thanks to his Dad and Grandfather, who he cannot thank enough for everything they do for him.