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Look! It’s Jr. in the No. 88 car at Dixie Motor Speedway!

No, not that Jr., it’s Ken Ford Jr. in his Pro Late Model on the ½ mile.

“A lot of people think I painted my car that way to make it look like Dale Earnhardt Jr.,” Ford said. “But, long-time Dixie fans should remember the 88 of Mike Eddy Sr. When I was growing up, Eddy was my Dale Earnhardt. My dad and I traveled around the states watching Eddy race, and my paint-job reflects the respect I have for him as a driver.

When Mike Eddy raced, he never gave up. Even if he spun out and had to go to the back, he would just start fresh. I try to model my driving after his hard-charging style. I always loved to watch him head to the outside and drive by everybody.”

Ford started racing factory stocks in 2005, and he transitioned to Pro Lates last year with six features at Dixie.

“In 2004, I was helping out another driver, and I had the opportunity to drive in a non-points race,” Ford said. “I didn’t do great, but I didn’t tear up the car either.

“I had never really thought about building my own car until my friend Dave Christensen told me about this Camaro that was for sale. Dave told me he was going to buy it if I didn’t, and the rest is history. My dad Ken Sr. thought I was crazy at first, but when the idea sunk in, he got a BIG smile on his face and we got to work on my first car.

"Last year I decided I wanted the challenge of the ½ mile compared to the ¼ mile,” Ford said. “There are a lot more competitors in the Pro Lates, with a lot more races under their belts. I’m having a lot of fun climbing to their level.”

Ford has a great support team and pit crew.

“My wife Samantha helps out and fully supports me and the car,” Ford said. “My parents Ken Sr. and Linda are a huge help. Our girls Casey, Courtney, Taylor and Lauren chip in when they can. I couldn’t do it without the support of my family.”

Ford grew up an only child, but has formed brotherly ties with the Christensens.

“Dave and Kent Christensen are like the brothers I never had,” Ford said. “We help each other out all year. Their dad, Al Christensen, has built every engine I have had since 2004 at his shop, Big Al’s Speed Shop in Clio, MI.”

Ford’s goals for 2009 are not lofty dreams of a track championship just yet. He’s looking to live and learn this year.

“I hope to win a couple of heats,” Ford said. “And a few top five finishes. The competition is really stiff, but I think my goals are attainable this year.”


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