Racing is one of the most under appreciated, yet dangerous, sports in America. The margin for error is so small, but senior Nick Bruegman has no fear of it. Despite the hazards, Bruegman has loved racing ever since he started it.

Dirt track racing is a form of racing where people compete using stock cars, racing on a dirt track usually used for horse racing. It all started eight years ago when Bruegman’s father, John Bruegman, had a friend that participated in racing. Just a few years down the line, John would pass on his car to Nick, allowing him to begin his own love of racing. 

Being new to the sport, he has had a lot to learn. He is only in his second full season racing, but has already won a few races. Nick said it was hard to succeed in his first couple of years, but he’s now gotten the hang of it. 

“Of course it was hard at first, but the racing community is really friendly,” Bruegman said. “They were always there to help me learn along the way.” 

Bruegman says that not many people that go to West even know about dirt racing. This has helped him grow friendships with other racers. Mainly people from small towns all across Nebraska. He races at the I-80 Speedway in Greenwood, the main spot for dirt racing in the state. Last year, he picked up his first win, being awarded rookie of the year for 2018. Even Mr. Gehrke, a science teacher at Millard West, attended one of Bruegman’s races over the season.

“It’s so great to see him doing something unique,” Gehrke said. “Something that can become his own passion.” 

Racing has been huge for Bruegman. It’s not just a hobby, it’s a love. A passion. Something he can say he does different than other people. 

“It’s been so much more than just racing for us,” Nick’s father John said. “It’s always been great father-son time, and that is priceless.” 

No matter how far Bruegman wants to take racing, the bond it’s made between him, his father, and a simple dirt road, can never be broken.