Young Harvick Outduels Dad Again on Track
Keelan Harvick claims another CARS Tour victory, trading barbs with racing legend Kevin Harvick
The Harvick family racing rivalry is heating up, with 13-year-old Keelan Harvick securing a commanding win over his father, Kevin Harvick, at Hickory Speedway in CARS Tour action. This marks the third time this season the young driver has bested his NASCAR Hall of Famer father in Pro Late Model competition.
Historic Win for Young Racer
Keelan Harvick‘s victory was more than just a personal triumph against his dad. He made history by becoming the first driver to win both a CARS Tour West event and a main CARS Tour East Coast race in the same season. The young phenom clinched his spot in the upcoming Throwback Classic at Hickory on August 2, where he’ll compete for a $30,000 prize.
A classic @HickorySpeedway moment! @KeelanHarvick wins the CARS Tour Pro Late Model race and gets to talk some trash to his dad, @KevinHarvick! 😂
“Not as bad as this, but like you said, he’s out of shape and old. So, it’s kinda hard not to [beat him].” @FloRacing pic.twitter.com/wX9b0M8Npv
— CARS Tour (@CARSTour) June 9, 2024
Dad’s Perspective
In the winner’s circle, a victorious Keelan Harvick didn’t hold back, playfully teasing his 49-year-old father. Not as bad as this, but like you said, he’s out of shape and old. So, it’s kinda hard not to [beat him]
, the young driver commented to FloRacing. For Kevin Harvick, the situation presents a no-lose scenario; wins showcase his continued skill, while losses highlight his successful mentorship of his son.
Future Prospects for Young Harvick
Keelan Harvick appears to be on a fast track toward a NASCAR career. His success in CARS Tour West races and now a CARS Tour East victory demonstrates significant talent. The teen’s maturity behind the wheel, honed by his father’s guidance, suggests a short track debut in the Truck Series or ARCA series is likely imminent. In fact, top young drivers in NASCAR’s feeder series, like William Byron, have achieved Cup Series wins before their 25th birthday (NASCAR.com, 2024).
Generational Talent in Racing
The Harvick father-son dynamic mirrors other emerging generational talents in motorsports. For instance, Kyle Busch has publicly shared his aspirations for his son, Brexton Busch, to eventually share a truck ride and progress through the ranks. The question remains whether both young Harvick and Busch could eventually compete in the Cup Series together.
