RESPECT IS LEARNED^© IN THE PITS 2017

The winner of the first Respect is Learned© In The Pits contest was selected on July 7, 2017. Four finalists were asked to submit short videos that highlighted their interests in motorsports, any possible interactions with the sport, and/or why they deserved to win. In order to narrow the finalists down to one, these videos were viewed by the Technician.Academy team as well as Randy and Megan Meyer. Unanimously, Kyle Clapp was selected as the winner based on his dedication, passion, and experience with drag racing.

Clapp, from Dublin, KY, attended West Kentucky Community and Technical College and has been drag racing since he was a kid, winning his first title at eight years old. He won many championships, countless trophies, and was even been named the “King of the Drag Strip” in his hometown. In Clapp’s semifinalist video, he said “..it would make my drag racing dreams come true” to win the Respect is Learned© In The Pits contest.

Over Labor Day weekend in 2017, Clapp worked in the pits with Randy Meyer Racing at the Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis, IN. The US Nationals is the biggest NHRA-sanctioned drag racing event of the year and is generally considered the most prestigious in the world due to its size and history. Both teammates, Justin Ashley and Megan Meyer made it to the Semi-Final Round with Megan Meyer advancing to the Final Round, which is a personal best for her at this event.

Kyle Clapp was excited about the opportunity and to experience such a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Clapp worked closely with the RMR team on both Megan Meyer’s and her teammate Justin Ashley’s cars. Kyle was able to network industry representatives, soak in first-hand knowledge from the pit crew and Technician.Academy throughout this prestigious race weekend. Clapp received a clutch plate signed by the RMR team in appreciation for his hard work in the pits.

RESPECT IS LEARNED© IN THE PITS 2017

RESPECT IS LEARNED^© IN THE PITS 2017