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A little about Steven in his own words --
My names Steven Upchurch. I'm single. No kids. I'm the youngest of 4 boys. I was born in Atlanta, Georgia, but I've lived pretty much my whole life in Cincinnati, Ohio. Most of my friends call me Eddie, or BT Dave. Those are very long stories. I graduated from Northwest High School in May of 2007, I now attend Cincinnati State Technical and Community College for Business Management. I work for Bob Sumerel Tire & Service, and I am also an independent AMSOIL Dealer.
I got into racing to have some fun. I spent the 2005 season going to the races with Rick Bingham helping him out as much as I could and learning the ropes. Without being around the track with Rick there's not much chance that I would have gotten into racing. I run Pure Stocks at Lawrenceburg Speedway. I ran 3 races plus Funfest in 2006, and 2007 was my rookie season. My best career finish is 6th. I won the D-Main at the 2006 Funfest. |
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The race that probably stands out most is a heat race earlier in the 2007 season. The majority of the race was spent with me, Jake Robinson, Greg Owens, and Shawn McIntosh racing for the lead. I led probably 2 laps, and while I did wind up with a flat tire with just a few laps to go, I am still very excited about competing that well with Greg and Shawn. I never would have expected to be able to do that with my car. I was so proud of my car, and my crew for that race.
In 2007, I wasn't able to break into the top 5 in a feature. We were consistent, but in 2008 we need to be consistent in the top 5. As a driver I need to be able to adapt to the track better. In 2007, I wasn't able to change my line for the track like I needed to. I need to learn to make adjustments to the car instead of just checking my air pressure and the normal routine stuff.
 
To all the rookies out there, I know it's a rough sport, but it's worth it. Just remember it's about having fun. Yes winning is fun, but if you wreck your car trying to win on the first lap your fun ends quick. Keep fighting and you'll succeed.
I would have to say the driver I look up to most is Rick Bingham. He took me under his wing and showed me the ropes when I was starting out and I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him. He's always willing to help me whenever I ask him, and he gives me advice whenever I'm not sure what to do. I saw the troubles he was having at the beginning of the season, and he kept fighting through it when most guys would just quit. His hard work and determination finally paid off when he got his first feature win. Being in victory lane with him for that win really inspired me to keep fighting forward, and if I try hard enough I'll get that win. That determination is why I look up to Rick. The other driver I would have to say I look up to is Shawn McIntosh. He's one of the nicest guys I've met around the track and even willing to help out anybody with anything. There were a few times at Funfest that he offered me parts off his own car to help me get back on the track.
In 2008, I plan on running for the Pure Stock points at Lawrenceburg Speedway. Also myself and Jake Robinson are currently building a Cruiser to run some at Twin Cities, and Funfest. There are possible plans to run some Mini Stock races as well.
My dream is to run in the Craftsman Truck Series some day. To me they always seem to put on the best show of all the asphalt series. In the next few years, probably after I graduate from college I plan on moving into the Mods.
Fans can come see me in my #89 Pure Stock at Lawrenceburg Speedway, as for the Mini-Stock, and Cruiser they'll have to keep their eyes on my website.
Steven's Website: www.geocities.com/upchurchracing
I would like to thank my mom and dad for putting up with me, and letting me keep the car at the house. Also I would like to thank my dad for all the work he does on the car. I couldn't do it without him. He's the biggest part of my crew, and is also my engine builder. I would also like to thank my brothers Rob, Mike, and Doug for all their help and support. Doug painted the 2007 car for me. Rob put the new rear end in it after we bent the old one.
I would like to thank my 2007 sponsors, CarQuest, AMSOIL, Robinson's Automotive, and Dent Radiator. I've already heard back from AMSOIL and Robinsons and they will be coming back for 2008. Also for 2008 Deron Prewitt will be painting the car, and my new helmet. If you are interested in sponsoring my car, or would like info on my sponsors visit my web site, or e-mail me at upchurchracing@hotmail.com
Thanks for the interview Steven, and good luck from all of us
at Indiana Dirt Scoops!
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