Carey ready for new role

By Ken de la Bastide

For more than two decades Justin Carey has had a presence around racing, this year he expands that role with the Kenyon Midget Series. Carey, 36, an Indiana native, is taking over as race director for the Kenyon Midget Series and 500 Sprint Car Tour.

“The biggest challenge will be switching from the competitor side of the sport to the officiating side of the sport,” he said. “I am learning what it takes to put on a race, an event, or even a season. There is a lot more that comes with the territory,” Carey continued. “Last year I was heavily involved with the 500 Sprint Car Tour technical side and feel that I have laid a solid groundwork for the teams and drivers to understand who I am.”

He stressed the importance of having a open line of communication with all the teams and drivers. “I know there is no way I will be able to make every team happy in the pit area, but I hope I can at least earn the respect that the events are held with the utmost integrity,” Carey realistically said.

He is excited about the opportunity but never thought it would be as a race official and not on the competition side of the sport. “I'm excited to be a small part of both series and help elevate in any way I can,” Carey said. “The alignment of the two series in 2024 is just another step forward for both series and the overall growth of the sport.”

Carey said he has never served as a race director but had a great teacher in his dad over the years. “I grew up around racing as my dad was heavily involved in racing for more than 30 years” Carey said. “Being around the track and hanging out with my dad helped open the door to Steve Lewis racing when I was 14. Bob East was the team manager and I attribute every aspect of racing I have been a part of to Bob.”

Outside of his time in racing, Carey works for TA Services in the logistics industry.