“Gave Me a Life-Changing Opportunity”: Dale Jr’s Mentee Salutes JRM Boss’ ‘Character’ to Support His Cup Series Dream

In 1998, a humble structure on Dale Earnhardt Inc.’s property was designated for managing Dale Earnhardt Jr’s marketing and sponsorship. From this modest beginning with just one employee, JR Motorsports has flourished into a major force in NASCAR.

Over the years, JR Motorsports has propelled young drivers like William Byron, Josh Berry, and Carson Kvapil into the spotlight. These talents have come through the Late Model program, led by Dale Earnhardt Jr and his sister, Kelly Earnhardt Miller. In a recent interview with NASCAR insider Bob Pockrass, Josh Berry reflected on the invaluable support he has received from Dale Jr, which has been pivotal in earning him a spot at Stewart-Haas Racing, taking over the seat from the retiring Kevin Harvick.

Josh Berry’s path and appreciation

Josh Berry’s journey to the Cup Series is full of ups and downs; he will become a rare 33-year-old Cup rookie in 2024. Just a year ago, he secured a two-year contract with Stewart-Haas Racing to replace the retiring Kevin Harvick, making him an unusual 33-year-old rookie in the Cup Series. And now Berry is once again left with no team for 2025.

Dale Earnhardt Jr has been a staunch supporter of Berry, who made his name as a long-time late model racer, winning five Xfinity races in 55 starts during 2021–22. His rise has inspired many local racers, showing that determination and talent can indeed lead to success.

Reflecting on his experience, Josh Berry expressed his deep gratitude towards Dale Jr. “He gave me a life-changing opportunity to move to North Carolina and drive his late models,” Berry shared. “To go through that and then work together and race with him as much as I did, it means a lot to have his support. Obviously, he’s done a lot for me, but he’s been a great friend as well.” Berry highlighted how Dale Jr’s support went beyond the racetrack, with frequent check-ins and encouragement during challenging times.

The # 4 driver remarked, “You find out so much about people when things get hard, and the type of people they are. Dealing with all this going on, he does not hesitate to reach out to me and ask how I’m doing if I need help or whatever, and it just really shows you the character that he has.” Thus, next time you face any issues, you know who’s out there to help you!

Despite some initial challenges, Josh Berry’s transition to Stewart-Haas Racing has showcased his resilience. The 2024 season started rocky, but Berry has managed to secure four top-10 finishes in the last nine races, climbing to 19th in the Cup standings. As Berry looks ahead, the lessons and relationships he’s built will undoubtedly play a significant role in his career. Does that mean he can go back to JRM?

While Josh Berry’s story is inspiring, another rising star and Cup Series rookie under the JR Motorsports umbrella is making waves in the NASCAR Xfinity Series—Carson Kvapil. In an exhilarating race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Kvapil finished in the top 5 for the third time in just four Xfinity starts. His stellar performance captivated the hearts of fans and racing personalities alike.

Carson Kvapil’s speedy ascent

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Carson Kvapil, from Mooresville, North Carolina, is continuing his family’s racing legacy as the son of former Cup Series driver Travis Kvapil. Following in his father’s footsteps, Carson launched his career in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series, where he achieved an impressive second-place finish at Kansas Speedway. Ever since his debut in NXS this year at Martinsville, there has been no looking back for the young rookie.

Carson’s top-5 finish in NHMS came in a bit of a quirky way. Starting from the 38th spot, Kvapil worked his way through the field and found himself towards the back with a quarter of the race remaining. Fortunately, the yellow flags fell his way, allowing him to restart on the front row with 26 laps left. Although Kvapil slipped back to fifth, his ability to maintain composure during a late-race restart was notable. This performance, including his 24 laps led, showcases why Dale Jr continues to believe in him.

Dale Earnhardt Jr who has been a mentor for the rookie, had earlier remarked, “Our Late Model program at JR Motorsports has been a huge part of the success we’ve had as a company. We’re excited to be able to give Carson the opportunity to take the next step in his career.” This is indeed a golden opportunity for Carson, if he continues to capitalize on the way he is doing now, he is bound to end up in the 2025 Cup Series. The rookie just needs to retain his humility.

Kvapil expresses his gratitude for the JRM in his post-match interview. He stated, “We were in a really good spot there with about 20 to go and probably got P3, but I can’t thank Andrew Overstreet, the whole JRM crew, and Clarence and Chevrolet for all that they do. On to the next one.” With his down-to-earth attitude and performance, the rookie has left a modest impression in the hearts of the racing community.  Perhaps it’s the association with Dale Jr that has given Kvapil this attitude.

Dale Jr’s effort is worth commending. If it weren’t for JR Motorsports, many of the talents we know now might become extinct or go unnoticed. Who do you think is the best talent JR Motorsports has produced? Don’t forget to share your views!