Kentucky's Small Track Racing: Passion, Legacy, and Comebacks

About the Guest(s):

Jeff Watson

Jeff Watson is the son of the late Finn Watson, a notable figure in auto racing, particularly on small tracks across Kentucky. Finn Watson, recognized for his 38-year-long racing career, was inducted into the National Hall of Fame and began his journey in racing at the age of 16. Jeff continues his father's legacy by being actively involved in dirt racing, bringing insights into the changes and developments in this motorsport over the decades.

Steve Blackburn

Steve Blackburn is a former motorcycle and automobile racer from Prestonsburg, Eastern Kentucky. Launching his racing career in the 1970s, Blackburn was active in both motorcycle and car racing before retiring in 2000 and 2013, respectively. Despite his retirement, Blackburn expresses a yearning to return to racing, fueled by his passion and extensive experience within the local and broader motorsport communities.

Episode Summary:

Join Gary Fogle in this episode of Kentucky Sports Memories as he delves into the lives and careers of small-track auto racing drivers in Kentucky. This episode shines a spotlight on the inspiring stories of Finn Watson, a legendary figure in the racing world, and his son Jeff, who continues the racing tradition. Also featured is Steve Blackburn, a former racer contemplating a return to the racing scene after an extended hiatus. This episode will enthrall motorsport enthusiasts with its engaging tales from the racetrack.

Kentucky is renowned for more than its thoroughbred horse racing; it's home to numerous auto-racing tracks cherished by local racing aficionados. The episode contrasts past and present racing landscapes, emphasizing how racing dynamics have transformed—from the good old junkyard car days to today's professionally sponsored, high-stakes environment. Jeff Watson offers an insightful discussion about his late father's racing era, underlining the shift from being hobbyists to professional racers backed by significant sponsorships. Key phrases like "auto racing's evolution," "dirt track supremacy," and "family legacy in motorsport" encapsulate this segment's spirit.

The conversation also includes an exploration of the personal side of racing through the experiences of Steve Blackburn, who is contemplating a comeback to racing. Despite the long hiatus, Blackburn's indomitable passion for racing propels him to reignite his career. This part of the episode highlights the challenges and sacrifices inherent in the racing lifestyle, especially concerning maintaining relationships while pursuing demanding passions. The discussion keenly touches on themes such as "return to racing," "motorcycle racing nostalgia," and "balancing passions and personal life," inviting listeners to reflect on the profound bond between racers and their calling.

Key Takeaways:

• Kentucky is home to a rich tradition of small-track auto racing, with the sport evolving from informal, junkyard-based origins to a professional sphere with substantial sponsorships.

• Jeff Watson shares insights on his father's legacy, emphasizing how racing as a hired driver in the past often guaranteed financial gains, unlike today's more commercialized racing circuits.

• Steve Blackburn, despite being in his 60s, showcases his persistent passion for racing, considering a return to cars after many years away from the track.

• Personal sacrifices, like strained relationships, are common among racers who dedicate weekends and extensive time to their craft, as expressed by Jeff Watson.

• The narrative underscores a notable shift in public perception of dirt racing, which has gained popularity as NASCAR fans move to smaller tracks.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Back in the early years, the same people loved NASCAR, loved dirt racing. But now people's left NASCAR and I think dirt racing is more, way more popular now." - Jeff Watson

2. "You can't meet one away from the track and say, hey, I won't take you to a race. Most of them will say, oh, I love racing. And then after about a month of it, they say, oh, you got to work on that car again tonight in the garage." - Jeff Watson

3. "Are you married or in a relationship? Well, that's the main reason I'm not. Racing's really hard on a relationship." - Jeff Watson

4. "After that long of a layoff. Do you still think you can do it? Oh, there's no doubt I can do it now. How well that I would do it now that might be a little bit different story, but there's not a doubt in my mind I can do it." - Steve Blackburn

5. "Who takes a 25 year break and then comes back out of retirement? Who does that? Oh, damn me, that's for sure." - Steve Blackburn

Join Gary Fogle as he continues to explore the stories behind the events and figures that have left a lasting mark on the world of sports in Kentucky. Listen to the full episode to engage with some legends in auto racing and stay tuned for more captivating episodes of Kentucky Sports Memories.