Ty Majeski, driver of the No. 98 Road Ranger Ford, celebrates after winning the Nascar Craftsman … [+]
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Ty Majeski’s racing journey is a testament to perseverance and unwavering belief in his abilities. After being dismissed from two different teams, he turned his focus to engineering with ThorSport Racing, never imagining it would lead to him hoisting the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship trophy. ThorSport, the oldest continuously running Craftsman Truck Series team, took a chance on Majeski, recognizing his talent behind the wheel. While working as an engineer in their Sandusky, Ohio shop, he was given the opportunity to compete part-time in 2021 following his departure from Niece Motorsports mid-season. The team’s owners, Duke and Rhonda Thorson, had faith in Majeski and assembled a sponsorship package, enabling him to race full-time in 2022.
Majeski blossomed once he transitioned to full-time racing. In his inaugural full season with the team, he secured two victories and clinched a spot in the Championship 4. A talented driver since his early days competing on a makeshift iRacing simulator, the 29-year-old rose through the ranks after a successful late model career as a teenager. His No. 98 Ford was an undeniable force throughout the year, delivering ThorSport Racing its sixth championship title.
“The most rewarding aspect is how I achieved this victory; it makes the championship even sweeter,” Majeski said. “My career has had its share of ups and downs. I feel I earned this through sheer hard work and dedication, the old-fashioned way. Despite being fired twice from previous opportunities, I came to ThorSport initially as an engineer with only four races scheduled. I take immense pride in reaching this point with limited financial backing.”
He briefly enjoyed a part-time Xfinity Series ride with Roush Fenway Racing (now RFK Racing) in 2017 and 2018, but his No. 60 car struggled to find its footing, yielding only two top-ten finishes before the organization dismantled its Xfinity program.
“I will always be grateful for that opportunity,” Majeski said. “Roush and Ford Performance gave me a chance. I learned a great deal about NASCAR from within, understanding both the business side and cultivating relationships.”
Undeterred, Majeski bounced back by winning three of six ARCA Menards Series races the following year. He transitioned to the Truck Series in 2020 with Niece Motorsports, but his tenure didn’t last the full season. That’s when ThorSport came into play. His University of Wisconsin-Madison engineering degree paved the way for this extraordinary opportunity.
“I can never express enough gratitude to Duke, Rhonda, and the entire Thorson family,” he said. “This is a dream come true. I am truly having the time of my life racing for them.”
Looking ahead, Majeski remains uncertain how this championship victory will shape his career trajectory. Whatever paths lie before him, he aspires to compete for top-tier teams instead of settling for mid-pack organizations.
“My greatest chance to win races and championships is at ThorSport,” Majeski said. “There was a period in my life when I raced with uncompetitive equipment, which made me fall out of love with the sport. I never want to experience that again.
“I don’t have any plans to change anything. As long as Duke and Rhonda desire my services, I would be thrilled to continue racing for them.”
Joined by essential partners like Soda Sense, Road Ranger, and Curb Records throughout this journey, Majeski recognizes that without their support, this opportunity wouldn’t exist.
ThorSport has secured six victories out of the last twelve seasons, dating back to 2013.
From Engineer to Champion: Ty Majeski’s Remarkable Journey to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Title
The Unlikely Path of a NASCAR Star
Ty Majeski, a name that now echoes through the halls of NASCAR, wasn’t always destined for victory lane. This young driver’s story is one of grit, determination, and an unwavering passion for racing that defied expectations.
From Dirt Tracks to Asphalt Dreams
Majeski’s journey began not on the high-banked asphalt tracks of NASCAR but on the challenging dirt circuits of Wisconsin. Growing up surrounded by a family deeply rooted in short track racing, Majeski’s talent became evident early on. He honed his skills, navigating treacherous corners and battling fiercely for position, laying the foundation for his future success.
The Leap of Faith: Transitioning to NASCAR
In 2019, Majeski took a bold leap of faith, transitioning from the dirt tracks to the asphalt world of NASCAR. Joining forces with ThorSport Racing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCWTS), he embarked on a new chapter. While many drivers make their way through the ranks by starting lower, Majeski’s confidence and natural ability propelled him directly into the competitive truck series.
Facing Challenges Head-On
Majeski’s initial foray into NASCAR wasn’t without its hurdles. Adapting to the unique demands of asphalt racing, navigating intricate competition, and contending with seasoned veterans proved to be a steep learning curve. However, Majeski faced each challenge head-on, embracing the experience and constantly striving for improvement.
Breaking Through: A Moment of Glory
The culmination of Majeski’s hard work and dedication came at the 2023 NCWTS Championship race. After a season filled with consistent performances and standout wins, he stood poised to claim the coveted title. In a dramatic last-lap showdown, Majeski seized victory, etching his name into NASCAR history as a champion.
Beyond the Track: A Rising Star in Motorsports
Majeski’s success transcends mere race wins and championship titles. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring racers everywhere, demonstrating that with unwavering passion, relentless effort, and a willingness to embrace challenges, dreams can be realized even the seemingly impossible ones.
The Future Holds Endless Possibilities
As Majeski enters a new chapter in his NASCAR career, the possibilities are truly endless. With his proven talent, unwavering determination, and an ever-evolving skillset, he is poised to make even greater strides in the world of motorsports.
