History - Living the Dream!
This is the story of how fate plays a role in your life. Rick was 8 years old when he saw his first stockcar race in Hibbing, Minnesota in 1972. Since that time, he always had this incredible urge to race a stockcar. Rick didn't come from a racing family--where a pile of knowledge, notes and experiences could guide him through to an easy win, but he had this deep feeling growing up as though he could handle that rocky road to success. It wasn't until he was 35 years old that he finally got his chance to living his dream.
But first, we must go back to 1980 when the competitiveness in Rick was born. Rick was talked into joining the local boxing gym. Rick really enjoyed training and competing. He went on to spending 12 years boxing; winning 7 Golden Glove Championships and beating numerous nationally ranked fighters. Rick also had the chance to participate in the 1988 & 1992 Olympic trials. He ended his boxing career at the age of 28 with an impressive record of 78 wins-18 loses.
In the spring of 2000, fate was at Rick's door step while he was at the racetrack to help his friend Jeff Hart prepare for his Modified race. Rick was at the right place, at the right time that night in the pits when he met Bill Matzdorf for the first time. Bill was a seasoned Modified veteran with 35 years of racing experience. He told Rick he was looking to sell his entire racing operation. Rick drove home that night and asked his wife Dani for her support in this venture. She agreed with some reluctance not knowing what laid ahead.
Rick's first official race was in late August of 2000 at the Hibbing Raceway. Rick chose to stay with the original color scheme of Matzdorf racing but needed to change the number. He picked the number 38 due to his favorite rock band 38 Special as well as no other Wissota/Nascar racer had previously claimed this number. On that first race, Rick chose to start in the back of the field due to his inexperience. Not many racers move straight into the Modifieds without some racing experience. Rick doesn't like to make enemies, especially on his first race out. Rick made it through that first race without incident.
Rick & his family have been blessed with meeting so many new friends within the "racing family" as well as a large list of fans that wish him luck or ask for autographs. 2003 brought in his 1st feature win and heat win on the same night (Clean Sweep) where it counted the most...at the Hibbing Raceway, where the competition doesn't get any tougher. He also nearly won the Grand Rapids track championship but took 2nd place by less than 12 points.
Rick has had a very dedicated pit crew consisting of his brother, Jeff as well as his friend, Jim Krznarich, nephew, Jeremy and son Mitchel. Together, they are dedicated to running a consistent performing racecar. You may also hear some good natured teasing amongst them if you are in their pit area. Rick sincerely thanks them and appreciates their dedication every weekend during the racing season. Rick would also like to thank his sponsors listed on the home page. Without these wonderful people, this would be very hard to accomplish.....Thank you for being part of my team!
Rick's neon colors must be mentioned as he is very unique with color and design. Rick tries very hard to look different yet standout for his fans and sponsors. You will not be disappointed whenever you see his cars throughout the season. He may have a newly inspired appearance. He is a hard charger with a determination to win! Look for Rick to be on top in 2007 as he dials in his Dirt Modified.
Don't stop believing!
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