The 46th Annual Snowball Derby is compacted with talent spreading from NASCAR to local levels. Mason Massey is among the local level drivers.
Massey, 16, began his career racing Bandoleros and Legends combining for over 150 wins amongst the two divisions. Progressing through the ranks didn’t take long for Massey; by 2012 he signed with Bill Elliott Racing in the Super Late Model ranks.
The 2013 Snowball Derby could be a make or break moment during Massey’s career. Last year Erik Jones battled with Kyle Busch throughout the race and ended up a driver at Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2013. The talent stretches throughout the entry list including Chase Elliott, Erik Jones, David Ragan and Daniel Hemric among the mentionable names. Massey understands what a top five could do for him in pursuit of a NASCAR career.
“Man a top five would be huge.” Massey explained to me. “There are going to be so many good racers there to compete against. A top five would definitely be awesome.”
With 66 teams marked on preliminary entry list Massey will have to qualify his way in the race. The pressure’s always high for drivers during the two lap span when you have to push the racecar to make the race.
“Our goal is to just make the race, and let it all fold out.” Massey said.
Making the race shouldn’t be a huge issue for Massey; how he performs in the race will be the ideal task at hand.
“I think if you finish the race on the lead lap anybody has a chance.” Massey said.
Following the checkered flag of the Snowball Derby, Massey will turn his attention to next season. He’ll turn 17-years-old in January meaning 2014 will be a huge year in deciding his future plans.
“We are kind of unsure about next year. We’re currently talking with some people about sponsorship.” Massey told me about his 2014 plans. “I really hope I can race K&N next year, but if not super late models will be alright.”
