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This week we get to know to the newest member of Unleashed Racing, T.J. Szalewski, also known as "The Comedian". T.J. has been coming to New Paris Speedway since 1994. "I have my long time friend David Raley to thank for introducing me to New Paris Speedway," he says.


Up until midway through this season, T.J. was a spectator. It was then that Kevin and Kirt Grubb offered him a ride so he could try his hand at racing. T.J. drives the 00 Mini Stock which is the only Pinto running at New Paris this year. In just a few short weeks, T.J. has shown great improvement. Just last week he won his first race. "My goal for this year and for next year is to get as much seat time as I can. I want to learn as much as I can from other drivers by getting their advice. I want to learn to be a good driver, not go out there like I am the best and start tearing cars up. That is not a good way to earn respect and let’s face it folks, driver respect is what its all about," T.J. stated.

The Mini Stocks are becoming quite popular and as far as car count goes, they have been the dominant class at New Paris Speedway this season. They don’t go as fast as the Late Model’s do but they are smaller and lighter and easier to maneuver around the track. T.J. says, "My favorite class has always been the Mini Stocks. They are fun to watch and anyone with spare time can build one. I am not saying they are cheap because they’re not but they are a lot less to build than a Late Model and they are just as much fun."

Every driver has had people inspire them. Those inspirations are important because they make the driver who they are. T.J. spoke of two people that stand out, and for good reasons, "My first inspiration is Davie Renbarger who drives the No. 13 Mini Stock. Davie and I grew up together and I remember him saying as a kid how he thought he would be a great racecar driver. Well he was right because Davie is well on his way to being a force at New Paris Speedway that I never even imagined. Davie has won a few heats and features this year and he is even the 2009 Rookie of the Year." T.J. said, "My other inspiration is Kevin Grubb who drives the No. 14 Mini Stock and is the owner of Unleashed Racing. Kevin is the nicest guy you will ever meet. He would do anything for anyone. I have seen him take parts off his own cars to give to his fellow drivers in need. All he asks for in return is respect for him and his team. Kevin doesn’t have thousands of dollars to drop in his cars but he is still competitive. He is one heck of a driver and a great friend."

Not only is T.J. on his way to being one of New Paris Speedway’s finest, he is an all around good guy. He will lend a hand to anyone who needs it. He is also a devoted family man to his girlfriend Kristi and their adorable 16-month-old daughter Aubree. T.J. sums it all up in one sentence. "Racing, its all about family, friends and fun times!"

Special thanks to Kevin and Kelly Grubb, Kirt Grubb, Davie Renbarger, David Raley, his girlfriend Kristi and everyone at 4 Play Racing and Unleashed Racing. T.J. would like to send out a very special Thank You to Shawn and Dori Garber.

Sponsors for T.J. and his 00 are Unleashed Racing, 4 Play Racing, Puma & Sabre by Forest River, R-P-ENTERPRISESTORE.COM, Harper Creations, Kropp Fire Protection, Holle’s Auto Salvage, Tuffy of Elkhart, Michiana Battery, Paradise Ice, K&K Engines and Shawn and Dori Garber.

Good Luck to T.J. "The Comedian" Szalewski in all of your racing endeavors. You are soon to be a force to be reckoned with and I will be in the stands cheering you on!

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