One Smart Driver.. Justin DeLong

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By Torri Godsey

Not only smart on the racetrack but also in the classroom. Justin DeLong has done a lot of racing since his start back in 2001 at age 11. In the time since then he has graduated, Junior High, then High School and continued on to college. DeLong is currently a Computer Science Major at Illinois State University in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois where he is also in the Honor’s Program.

In 2001 DeLong started his racing career in quarter midgets. He later moved on to mini sprints, sportsmen, then to his current class-modifieds. Thru the end of the 2009 season DeLong has earned 85 wins. The 2010 season saw the Twin City Terror win his first modified race in April to later win a track championship in September at Farmer City Raceway in Illinois. He also had his second top 10 points finish in a row at Fairbury American Legion Speedway also in Illinois.

The DeLong racing operation has been a family affair from the beginning. His mother, Karen DeLong is the car owner and number one cheerleader, father Ron is crew chief with help from Grandpa also named Ron. The rest of the crew includes, Doug Lawson, Jim Morrison, Scott Lewis, Mark Wilson, Mike Mellott, Rob Carney, Ben, Ethan and Zach. We can’t forget Justin’s number one girlfriend, Kayla Schott. For this 20-year-old driver it doesn’t hurt to keep the family close.

According to father Ron DeLong, the family all are very proud of Justin’s academic achievements. He has been able to complete classes while still having time to work and race on his modified. DeLong’s talents are off the track as well. While in Junior High he played baseball for the McDonald’s all-star team in Cuba. Justin is also an Eagle Scout who is involved in community services, which has included organizing a blood drive. On his modified fuel cell the saying “Save 2nd Base” appears, which is in observation of Breast Cancer Awareness. The DeLong family hopes that seeing the saying will encourage women to check the “Ta Ta’s”.

Most people at twenty do not have it together like Justin DeLong does, so to get his perspective I asked.

Justin agreed with his father when asked what he is most proud of achieving, becoming an Eagle Scout. He also says finishing in the top 20 of points in 2007 while still driving sportsmen. He added being voted the fan favorite in 2008 and 2009 (and leading this year) on the web page midwestdirttrackfacts.com makes him proud.
Married with children while continuing racing either professionally or as a hobby is where DeLong sees himself in his five and ten year plans. Of course with his college degree or maybe two. Something most people do not know about him, he is extremely shy.

DeLong has been a big fan of local late model driver Joe Harlan since he was a kid. He also looks up to fellow modified driver Jeff Leka. Both drivers can be found at Justin’s favorite tracks Farmer City and Fairbury where he loves to race. He would someday like to race in the World 100 at Eldora. Maybe sometime he would try his hand on asphalt but for now he really enjoys racing his dirt modified.

Two race nights really stand out in DeLong’s extensive race career. One of which happened in April of 2007 at Farmer City where he won his very first sportsmen race. The other night also at Farmer City in April of this year, his first modified win.

Justin DeLong may be young but his brain and heart are both defiantly in the right spots. An honor student, track champion, athlete, volunteer, good son, fan favorite, Justin DeLong has it going on. If you ever see the 7J-modified car in the pits make sure to stop by and meet Justin and his crew. This kid is one to watch in the future!
DeLong racing would like to thank their sponsors; ABI Technology, Inc.

Accurate Towing, ACE Motorsports, Advance Auto Parts, Aftershock Graphix, B Sharp Entertainment, Blondeez Bumperz, Bob Pierce Race Cars, Dyer’s Top Rods, Eric Blankenship, Financial Representative COUNTRY FINANCIAL, Erik Grigsby Photography, Friedman Racing Engines, Heritage Manor, Hoosier By Shawn, Landrum Performance Spring, McBrayer Sanitary Service, mcfphotos, Nyles Auction Service, Pontiac RV, Ringers Gloves, Ropp Jersey Cheese, Slaughters Custom Shop,S & S Racing Supplies, Super Gyro’s in Bloomington, VP Racing Fuels, Weber Auto Body

Justin Delong Race Party will be help December 4th from 5pm until whenever at Indian Country Club, Fairbury, Illinois. Auction starts at 7pm. Adults -$10, kids 6- 10 $5, under 5 free.
 




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