The 40th edition of the Tulsa Shootout is underway, bringing together NASCAR legends and rising stars for a week of high-octane dirt racing. Kyle Busch, Kyle Larson, and Christopher Bell headline the event, while young prodigies like Brexton Busch and Owen Larson are making waves, proving that talent runs deep in their families. With over 1,400 entries registered, this year’s competition promises to be one for the books.
Big names, big stakes: NASCAR stars hit the dirt.
For NASCAR veterans Kyle Busch, Kyle Larson, and Christopher Bell, the Tulsa Shootout is not just another event—it’s a proving ground. Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, is making his third consecutive appearance at the Shootout, using the event to prepare for his debut at the Chili Bowl Nationals later in January. His participation spans multiple categories, and his determination to regain his competitive edge after a winless 2024 NASCAR season is evident. Notably, Busch isn’t the only one from his family competing—his nine-year-old son, Brexton Busch, is racing in the Restricted A-Class and Junior Sprints categories, showcasing his own burgeoning talent.
Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, is another major draw at Tulsa. With a history of success on dirt tracks, including a victory at the Shootout in 2010, Larson is chasing wins in four different categories this year. The family theme continues with Larson’s 10-year-old son, Owen, who is competing in the Restricted A-Class and Junior Sprints. Owen has already turned heads with his impressive performances, including victories in qualifying races.
Christopher Bell, another NASCAR star, returns to the Tulsa Shootout after a three-year hiatus. Bell, who won the Winged Outlaw category in 2017, will compete in both the Winged Outlaw and Non-Wing Outlaw classes this year, adding to the excitement surrounding the event. With Bell back in the mix, fans can expect fierce competition from this dirt-racing specialist.
Rising stars shine: Brexton Busch and Owen Larson make their mark.
The next generation of racing talent is already making waves at the Tulsa Shootout. Brexton Busch, at just nine years old, is proving to be more than just the son of a NASCAR legend. Competing in the Restricted A-Class and Junior Sprints, Brexton has impressed with his maturity on the track and his strategic insight off it. Remarkably, his advice has even influenced the racing tactics of his father, Kyle Busch. In a humorous anecdote shared by Kyle, Brexton once scolded him for not following his advice during a race—proof that the younger Busch is wise beyond his years.
Meanwhile, Owen Larson is emerging as a star in his own right. The 10-year-old stunned spectators with his ability to climb from the back of the pack to claim victory in qualifying races. In a lighthearted post-race interview, Owen ribbed his father, Kyle Larson, by pointing out that he had more wins than his dad at that point in the event. The playful rivalry between father and son has added an extra layer of entertainment for fans, but Owen’s performances suggest he’s more than capable of stepping out of his father’s shadow to carve his own path in dirt racing.
The family dynamic: A new era of mentorship and rivalry.
The Tulsa Shootout is showcasing not just the skill of seasoned NASCAR drivers, but also the unique dynamics between racing fathers and their prodigious sons. For Kyle Busch, Brexton is both a source of inspiration and a mentor, helping him refine his skills on dirt tracks. Similarly, Kyle Larson’s interactions with Owen reveal a dynamic of mutual respect and friendly competition, with both Larsons pushing each other to excel.
Wyatt Miller, the 13-year-old grandson of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, is another young racer to watch. The reigning champion in the Restricted A-Class, Wyatt enters the Shootout with high expectations. His participation underscores the depth of talent in this year’s event and serves as a reminder of the enduring legacies in motorsport.
What’s next: High stakes as the main event approaches.
As the Tulsa Shootout continues through January 4, all eyes will be on the marquee races where NASCAR stars and rising talents will go head-to-head. The main event on Saturday evening, scheduled for 6:00 PM local time, promises intense competition as over 1,400 entries battle for supremacy on the dirt track. For Kyle Busch, it’s a chance to continue his redemption arc after a challenging 2024 NASCAR season. For Kyle Larson, it’s an opportunity to showcase his versatility across multiple categories while keeping an eye on his son Owen’s impressive debut. Christopher Bell’s return adds another layer of excitement, as fans anticipate whether he can reclaim his former glory on the Tulsa dirt.
Beyond the NASCAR heavyweights, the young talents like Brexton Busch, Owen Larson, and Wyatt Miller are making it clear that the future of motorsport is in capable hands. Their performances have not only added intrigue to the event but have also sparked conversations about the next generation of racing superstars. As the competition heats up, the Tulsa Shootout is shaping up to be a defining moment for both established champions and rising stars alike.
