NASCAR has taken big steps in inspiring young racers and get them out on the track and racing. In 2022, they launched the NASCAR YOUTH SERIES, a dedicated racing platform designed to empower young racers.
On May 24, 2025, the Midwest Thunder Series roared into Clarkston, Michigan, at the Michigan Midget Racing Association (MMRA) track, delivering an action-packed day of youth quarter midget racing.
This family-friendly event drew hundreds of spectators and showcased young talent tearing up the track.
Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting NASCAR Youth Series-sanctioned event, from the classes and safety measures to the food, raffles, and more.
What Is the Midwest Thunder Series?
The Midwest Thunder Series is a premier quarter racing series for young drivers, sanctioned by the NASCAR Youth Series under the United States Auto Club (USAC).
It provides a competitive yet supportive environment for kids who are interested in racing cars, and helps develop racing skills, sportsmanship, and a love for motorsports.
The series runs from April to October, with race teams competing at various tracks across the Midwest. There are several races every weekend, with different names, the Midwest Thunder Series is the biggest event of the series.
In addition to participating in the Midwest Thunder Series, young racers get to join a race team and compete every weekend from April through October, dates may vary.
The Clarkston event, hosted at MMRA (4770 Waterford Rd, Clarkston, MI), was a highlight of the 2025 season, featuring two days of racing on May 24 and 25.
Participating States
The Midwest Thunder Series attracts young racers from several Midwest states, including:
These states form the core of the series, with families traveling to compete in a region known for its rich racing culture.
NASCAR YOUTH SERIES is nationwide. Check your local race clubs and Visit nascaryouth.com for more information.
Age Ranges and Racing Classes
The series is designed for kids ages 5 to 16, with classes tailored to different skill levels and age groups. At the Clarkston event, the following classes competed:
- Red Rookie (Ages 5-8): For beginners, with 7 entries. This class focuses on learning the basics of racing.
- Blue Rookie (Ages 5-8): A step up from Red Rookie, also with 7 entries, for slightly more experienced young drivers.
- Junior Honda (Ages 5-9): A competitive class with 15 entries, using Honda-powered cars.
- Senior Honda (Ages 9-16): A more advanced class with 24 entries, featuring faster Honda engines.
- Heavy Honda (Ages 9-16): For drivers meeting specific weight requirements, with 15 entries.
- Junior Animal (Ages 5-9): Powered by Briggs & Stratton Animal engines, designed for younger racers.
- Senior Animal (Ages 9-16): A faster class for older kids using Animal engines.
- Unrestricted Animal (Ages 12-16): The top tier for experienced drivers, offering maximum speed and competition.
Each class ensures kids race against peers of similar age and skill, fostering fair and exciting competition.
Racers receive metals, plaques or ribbons for competing, or finishing in 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.
Attendance and Participation
The Clarkston event saw an estimated 500-900+ attendees, including families, friends, and racing enthusiasts, creating a fun atmosphere. About 90+ kids raced across the various classes, showcasing their skills and teamwork as part of dedicated race teams that compete throughout the season.
NASCAR Youth Series Connection
The Midwest Thunder Series is proudly part of the NASCAR Youth Series, which aligns with USAC to promote youth racing nationwide.
This connection provides young drivers with a structured path to develop skills that could lead to higher levels of motorsports, potentially even NASCAR’s professional circuits.
The series emphasizes safety, sportsmanship, and family involvement, making it a perfect entry point for aspiring racers.
How Fast Are the Cars?
Quarter midget cars in the Midwest Thunder Series can reach speeds of up to 30-40 mph, depending on the class and track conditions. These small but powerful cars are designed specifically for young drivers, offering a balance of speed and control.
The MMRA track in Clarkston, a quarter-mile oval, provides a fast yet safe environment for kids to race.
Safety Measures for Young Racers
Safety is the top priority in the Midwest Thunder Series. All drivers must wear:
- Full-face helmets with visors
- Fire-resistant racing suits
- Neck braces
- Racing gloves and shoes
- Arm restraints and five-point harnesses
Cars are equipped with roll cages and safety frames to protect drivers.
Tracks like MMRA are designed with barriers and runoff areas to minimize risks.
Additionally, trained officials and medical personnel are on-site to ensure quick response in case of incidents. Parents and teams are also educated on safety protocols to keep the focus on fun and competition.
Types of Midget Cars
Quarter midget cars are purpose-built for youth racing, measuring about 7 feet long and powered by small engines (typically Honda or Briggs & Stratton). Popular brands include:
- Bullet: Known for durability and performance.
- Bullride Race Cars: A favorite for competitive handling.
- Gbaby Racing: Customizable for young drivers.
These cars are lightweight, with adjustable setups to suit different classes and driver skill levels.
A Family Event
The Midwest Thunder Series is more than just racing—it’s a family affair. The Clarkston event featured:
- Hundreds of Prize Basket Raffles: Families enjoyed raffles with exciting prizes, from racing gear to gift cards, adding to the festive vibe.
- Food and Grill Options: Food trucks and on-site grills offered burgers, hot dogs, snacks, and drinks, keeping everyone fueled for the day.
- Camping Available: MMRA provided camping options for families, allowing them to make a weekend of the event and meet other racing families.
The event fosters a sense of community, with parents, siblings, and friends cheering on racers and connecting over a passion for motorsports.
Race Teams and Season Details
Kids in the Midwest Thunder Series are part of race teams that compete from April to October, traveling to tracks across the Midwest.
These teams provide mentorship, technical support, and camaraderie, helping young drivers grow both on and off the track. The Clarkston event was Race #2 of the 2025 season, with registration closing on May 23 at 8 PM.
Event Schedule
- Start Time: Gates opened at 8:00 AM on Saturday May 24th, with racing beginning around 9:00 AM after check-ins.
- End Time: The event wrapped up around 6:00 PM, allowing families plenty of time to enjoy the day.
Notable NASCAR Drivers with Midget Racing Roots
Many NASCAR stars began their careers in midget racing, including:
- Jeff Gordon: The four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion raced quarter midgets as a kid, honing his skills in series similar to Midwest Thunder.
- Tony Stewart: A three-time Cup Series champion, Stewart started in midget racing before climbing the motorsports ladder.
- Kyle Larson: The 2021 Cup Series champion is known for his dirt racing background, including midget cars, which shaped his versatile driving style.
These drivers prove that youth racing can be a stepping stone to NASCAR greatness.
How to Sign Up
Parents interested in getting their kids involved in the Midwest Thunder Series can register through MyRacePass.
The entry fee for classes like Red Rookie is $55, with options to compete in multiple classes. Visit MyRacePass.com for registration details and to join the 2025 season.
Why Midwest Thunder Matters
The Midwest Thunder Series is more than just a race—it’s a platform for young drivers to chase their dreams, build confidence, and create lasting memories with their families.
The Clarkston event on May 24, 2025, showcased the passion and talent of over 100 kids, supported by a community of fans and families.
With safe, fast cars, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of activities like raffles and great food, it’s no wonder this series is a highlight of the Midwest racing scene.
For more information on the Midwest Thunder Series, visit MidwestThunderQM.com or MMRA25.com. Get ready for the next race and join the thunder.
Check out a quick, time speed clip, of the racers in action
Note. The number of attendees and racers are estimates as the recorded numbers are not available at this time.
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