Shining brightly in the distance is the horizon- a spectacle that can make you mysteriously continue to look forward into the distance. Our Horizon Award was put into place to recognize drivers, whose careers shine as brightly as the sun on the horizon.
Exceptional young talent has been abundant throughout the years in western Pennsylvania. Our own past recipients, Don McKnight and Matt Lux, are a true example of this fact and are now excelling and building upon their early accomplishments. This year’s recipient promises to be no exception.
Sprint Cars are considered to be the fastest dirt track cars in the world. Imagine your 16-year-old coming to you with his desire to strap himself into one of these 1200-pound winged warriors. Isn’t the norm to usually have your 16-year-old continuously badgering you for the keys to the “family vehicle,” or perhaps just get their driver’s license?
Our 2001 Horizon Award recipient quickly looked past this teenage ritual to become a weekly competitor in sprint car racing in western Pennsylvania. By mid-season not only was he competing, but he had garnered his first victory. It is thought that not only is he the youngest feature winner in the 50-year history of Mercer Raceway Park, but perhaps the youngest sprint car feature winner ever in western Pennsylvania racing. I proudly present to you Brian Woodhall, our 2001 Horizon Award recipient.