A hometown hero from Jackson, Michigan, is making waves in the racing world while balancing a day job and family life. Morgen Baird, a 32-year-old grassroots racer, has carved out a unique niche for himself as both a senior recruiter for WorkGenius and a competitive driver on the NASCAR circuit. Despite limited funding, Baird remains committed to his racing ambitions, proving that dreams can endure despite challenges.
This weekend, Baird takes the wheel of the No. 2 Alro Steel Ford F-150 in the Craftsman Truck Series race at Michigan International Speedway (MIS). Sharing the same team, Reaume Brothers Racing, is Frankie Muniz, who will pilot the No. 33 truck. The two teammates, though from different backgrounds, share a common goal: to excel in the high-speed world of motorsports. Baird recalls their earlier encounter at Kansas Speedway, where he admired Muniz's laid-back demeanor and focus on the sport. Meanwhile, Muniz balances his racing career with acting, having recently wrapped filming for a reboot of "Malcolm in the Middle."
Baird's journey to this point hasn't been without setbacks. Last year, an emotional moment diverted him from his debut in the NASCAR Xfinity Series when he chose to return home for the birth of his first child, Brody. Though missing the race was painful, fatherhood brought clarity and perspective. This weekend, Baird aims for redemption with Brody by his side, ready to witness his dad's determination firsthand. In addition to Saturday's race, Baird competes in Friday's ARCA Series event, proudly showcasing local brands like Founders Brewing and Alro Steel on his vehicles. While aware of the competition's strength, Baird remains focused on finishing strong and gaining valuable experience.
Racing isn't just about speed; it's about perseverance, community, and leaving a legacy. Morgen Baird exemplifies these qualities through his dedication to his craft and his family. By representing Michigan companies and sharing the track with Hollywood talent, he demonstrates that passion transcends barriers. As he continues his pursuit of excellence, Baird inspires others to chase their dreams while cherishing what truly matters in life.
Former Formula E champion Pascal Wehrlein is venturing into a new chapter of his racing career by participating in the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours. Known predominantly for his accomplishments in single-seater competitions, Wehrlein has expressed a long-standing aspiration to compete in endurance racing. This year, he joins the Porsche Penske Motorsport team as part of their expanded lineup for the iconic French race. Partnering with experienced drivers Nick Tandy and Felipe Nasr in the #4 Porsche Penske 963, Wehrlein's participation comes after an opportunity arose due to Porsche’s restructuring of its driver roster. His journey includes significant testing phases and previous engagements in other major races, marking a pivotal moment in his professional evolution.
The upcoming Le Mans event represents not only a personal milestone for Wehrlein but also an opportunity to showcase his adaptability and skillset beyond Formula E. Having primarily focused on electric racing circuits, this shift highlights his versatility and ambition within motorsports. Despite joining Porsche's factory lineup recently at the Spa WEC round, Wehrlein remains committed to balancing both programs effectively while preparing for the unique challenges posed by endurance racing.
Throughout his career, Wehrlein has demonstrated resilience and talent across various racing platforms, including stints in Formula 1 and DTM. His decision to embrace endurance racing reflects a broader vision of expanding his horizons within the competitive world of motorsport. As he steps onto unfamiliar territory, the German racer acknowledges the immense challenge ahead yet expresses enthusiasm about proving himself in such a grueling format.
For many athletes, transitioning between different forms of competition requires careful planning and execution. In Wehrlein's case, maintaining focus on his primary commitment—Formula E—while simultaneously preparing for Le Mans demands exceptional discipline and time management. By leveraging his extensive experience and technical knowledge gained from prior engagements, he aims to excel in this dual role. Ultimately, this venture underscores his determination to leave a lasting legacy across multiple facets of professional racing.
Beyond the thrill of competing in one of the most demanding races globally, Wehrlein views this experience as a chance to broaden his capabilities further. While aware of the rigorous nature of endurance events, he remains optimistic about contributing meaningfully to his team's efforts at Le Mans. Balancing high-pressure situations with strategic precision will be crucial as he seeks to achieve success in this new arena. Thus, Wehrlein embarks on this exciting journey driven by passion and dedication, eager to make his mark in endurance racing history.