Listen to Jason on the Latest Late to the Grid Podcast with Bill Snow

Send us Fan MailWhat sport did you letter in during high school… and why wasn’t it racing? 😄In this episode, Bill sits down with Jonathan Eckelberg to talk about one of the most promising “future of grassroots racing” stories out there: the High School Racing Association (HSRA). It's a program that helps high school students get involved in local short track racing, build real-world skills, and (in some schools) earn official recognition like letters and jackets.Jonathan’s racing roots run deep; he grew up at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway watching his dad race, jumped into the Hornet division as soon as he was old enough, and went on to race for 17 seasons, including years in pro late models (with some legendary post-race Pabst stories along the way). Eventually, life priorities changed and he hung up the helmet…right as he stepped into a new role that keeps him in the sport: HSRA Series Director.From there, the conversation gets into what HSRA really is and why it matters: Why racing can be a perfect fit for students who don’t connect with traditional stick-and-ball sports  How HSRA mixes hands-on automotive work with STEM, marketing, communication, and teamwork Why tracks are getting involved (and why it’s urgent as the average pit/stand age climbs)  How HSRA reaches schools through auto programs, tech ed, and athletics/activity directors The biggest barriers for new families (cost, tools, storage, truck/trailer) and how the program helps connect them with resources and mentors  What “success” looks like when HSRA students graduate out and move up into other divisions Jonathan also shares what he’s most proud of: watching brand-new families enter motorsports for the first time, then build confidence, community, and a pathway that can stick with them for life.Learn more about HSRA here: https://highschoolracing.org/ The season is finally here, but is your car actually ready? Whether you need a precision track alignment, corner balancing, or just a fresh set of tires mounted, Atomic Autosports has you covered. Don’t let a tech form or a bad setup ruin your weekend. Book now and get dialed in at AtomicAutosports.com. Want to shave seconds off your lap times? Head over to AtomicAutosports.com. We’ve built a library of alignment specs, downloadable track-day checklists, and a gallery of our latest builds to get your gears turning. Everything you need for a smoother event is just a click away at AtomicAutosports.com. You know me as the host of Late To Grid, but my biggest shift wasn't on the track, it was leaving corporate life to own a Rad Air location. It gave me the freedom to turn my passion for cars into a career and actually get to the track more often. Ready to own your future? Visit radairfranchise.com and let’s get you living life in the fast lane. Stop being Late To Grid and start being prepared. Atomic Autosports is your source for Malco detailing, Red Line lubes, and high-temp fluids. Need pit accessories or some fresh Atomic merch for the podium? We’ve got you covered. Stop in the shop in Wickliffe Ohio or visit AtomicAutosports.comThanks for listening and taking an interest in growing grassroots racing.  The Late To Grid podcast shares the stories and inspiration that help listeners along their motorsports journey.  Find all episodes on the Atomic Autosports website.