Everyone agrees that Rutledge Wood is one funny, interesting and cool talent for the SPEED Channel. Rutledge has had an incredible and interesting journey to working for SPEED and he now is able to enjoy his passion, racing. You can see Rutledge every weekend at the race track and as well as on TV for Top Gear, a show all about cars. Rutledge went from being a motorsports enthusiast to a full-time worker in NASCAR. Over the last eight years, Rutledge has enjoyed working in the NASCAR industry and we all enjoy seeing him on TV.
Recently I was able to conduct an interview with Rutledge, and below he gives me some insight to his job and some other interesting facts.
You got an interesting start in NASCAR; tell us how you came to work for SPEED?
“I started in the marketing department and worked my way up until I got a chance to be in front of the camera. This is my 8th year on the road for SPEED.”
What are some of the jobs you have gotten to do for the SPEED Channel?
“I have gotten to work as Speed Road Tour manager, emcee, and on-air talent.”
Since you began working for NASCAR, what has been your favorite memory you have had at the track?
“When I got to fly over Daytona Int’l Speedway flying in an F16 with the Thunderbirds, that’s one of the coolest things I’ve ever done.”
Who are some of your favorite SPEED co-workers?
“I love them all, but Kyle Petty is my best friend, so he’s my favorite!”
You are a co-host on Top Gear, how did you end up on that show?
“They found me doing my job on SPEED…I’m really lucky to have two of the best jobs in the world.”
What has been your favorite adventure you have had on Top Gear?
“Our trip to Alaska was one of my favorites…so was Death Valley. They’ve all been really fun in their own way. The producers love coming up with insane twists to seem like a normal trip.”
Your fellow co-host’s on Top Gear are Adam Ferrara and Tanner Foust, what’s it like to work with them?
“It’s awesome. They’re two of the funniest, nicest, crazy driving guys in the world.”
What is a normal race day like for Rutledge Wood?
“Get there early, have a meeting about our show(s), then head in to the track to interview the drivers. It’s a pretty fast paced world even though it’s spread over three days.”
What’s the best part about working for SPEED?
“The best part is getting to be a part of such a fun sport that so many people love. All the fans that I’ve met over the years have been so supportive of me. It’s like one big family.”
How do you think the Sprint Cup Season will turn out?
“I think it’s going to come down to Jimmie Johnson, Denny Hamlin, and Brad Keselowski. Those three guys all seem like the team to beat.”
You can follow Rutledge on Twitter @RutledgeWood or twitter.com/rutledgewood and watch for him on SPEED channel throughout the remainder of the NASCAR season.
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