RPW Column: Pierce Family Enjoying Success, But Not Resting On Laurels Heading To 2020

RPW Column By: BOBBY CHALMERS / RPW – EAGLE BRIDGE, NY – At the end of the 2018 season, I wrote a column about the Pierce family, namely Chad Pierce’s son’s Carter and Jaden. I talked about their connection to the sport of auto racing, and each other, through the almighty checkered flag.

Another racing season has gone by, and that bond has grown even stronger.

The two youngest members adding to the legacy of the Pierce family enjoyed an amazing season in 2019. For Jaden, it was a great year behind the wheel of his #74 Kart, taking seven checkered flags and class championships at both Dodge City & Lebanon Valley Kart Speedways.

For the flagger in the family, Carter, he still held his position at the Valley Kart Track but also added to his flagging resume, getting to do so for a race at Dodge City. However, probably the biggest thrill was getting the opportunity to take charge of the flag stand for a Big Block Modified heat race at Lebanon Valley thanks to his idol, chief starter Rodney Rescott.

Now with 2019 in the rear view mirror, both young men finally have time to reflect on the year gone by, how much they’ve achieved in the last year, and ponder what’s on the horizon.

“It was a fun year for sure,” Jaden said. “I loved every minute of it, especially getting to run a new kart in a new class.”

For Carter, he had the same big smile when asked about last season.

“It was simply amazing,” he said. “I just love doing my job. Getting to stand on that flag stand and take command of the race is such a thrill.”

The most unique part about all of this is that their father, Chad, knows the love of auto racing just as much as his boys. He understands it from both ways….being in the driver seat and being a fan. This is something special that he can now share with his kids, and they love getting to do this with their dad.

“I love that we can do this with him,” Jaden said. “The only thing that isn’t as much fun is when he makes me push my kart to tech each race. That is tiring.”

Carter explained that having his Dad in his corner means everything to him.

“Dad’s really been behind me with the flagging thing,” he said. “He just likes to see me happy. Working with Kenny (Beehm, starter at LV’s Kart Track) and learning from Rodney makes me happy.”

In part, Dad chooses to let his boys experience things on their own, rather than forcing them to do what he wants. However, he’s just like any father…supportive, yet always the teacher.

“Each week, I tell them to have fun and try their best,” Chad said. “We had a lot of fun this year. Being able to pass down the love of a sport that my father gave me has been great. Their mom (Chad’s wife, Sandra) really enjoys watching her boys do things they’re passionate about.”

Probably the best part of this whole racing family is that both brothers have that special connection at the race track, each and every time they go.

“It is so great to see them put in hard work and achieve success,” Chad said. “When Jaden got a win and Carter waved the checkered as he crossed the finish line was a definite highlight for all of us. “They both still talk about that day.”

As for this coming season, Jaden’s racing plans are looking to get a little busier.

“We’re going to do as much as racing as we can with him,” Chad said. “Chasing the checkered flag isn’t the only prize we want. Sandra and I are trying to teach sportsmanship, teamwork, trust and dedication to both of our boys. Everything else will fall into place.”

Where will he be running?

“We’re going to continue racing at Lebanon, but want to travel some,” Jaden said. “Mom and Dad just got me a Wing Champ Kart to try and run some WCRS (Wing Champ Racing Series) races. They want me to run other places and I’m cool with that.”

And what does 2020 have in store for Carter?

“I just want to keep getting better as a starter,” he said. “I’m hoping that Kenny and Heather (O’Dell, Promoter of the LV Kart Speedway) can help me help grow as a flagger. I think I’m ready to take over for Rodney…just kidding.”

After another promising season, the Pierce family is ready to tackle 2020 and see if they can keep this upwards trajectory in the world of racing. Even with their success to date, each member of the family knows real achievement isn’t just counted in wins and trophies. It’s also tallied by lessons learned and fun which is had. That will define a successful year coming up, and there’s no doubt that the Pierce’s will make sure those goals are attained.