South Yunderup’s “Smokin” Joe Chalmers is about to take a major step on his path to a long and prosperous career in motorsport.
The up-and-coming star has been racing dirt go-karts around Australia since the age of seven, accumulating over 40 state title plates and six national crowns, but he’s now turning his focus to a different avenue of racing.
In 2016 Chalmers purchased an ex-American Dirt Late Model, a purpose built dirt racing car from the USA with a 430cu engine, close to 800 horse power, small tyres and an aluminium body capable of lap times at the Perth Motorplex.
It’s a brand new challenge for the young gun – who will need to master a whole new style of racing if he’s to step into the drivers seat – but one he’s determined to conquer.
“These things are daunting, scary but at the same time exciting and awesome,” he said.
“We race at the Perth Motorplex in Kwinana and the first time I went out onto that race track I couldn’t stop smiling.
“I thought ‘I'm about to achieve a lifelong dream and race at the Motorplex in a Dirt Late Model.”
Recently Chalmers his team attended a photo shoot day at the Motorplex with well known Australian motorsport commentator Wade Aunger behind the lens.
“This kid is an excitement machine, when he gets the craft first hand, which as he knows is not easy, he’s going to lift the roof off this division,” Aunger said about Chalmers.
The young star is backed by local businesses TDR Stone, Okley Contracting and Ward Boats who are right behind him as he chases his dream behind the wheel.
