Brad Perez is hunting for “80-percenter” opportunities to get ahead in racing

Sep 14, 2024 at 3:00 PM

From Valet to NASCAR: The Remarkable Rise of Brad Perez

A few years ago, Brad Perez was valeting cars. Now, he's making a name for himself in the high-octane world of NASCAR. Perez's journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams.

Defying the Odds: The Unconventional Path to NASCAR Success

Embracing the Hustle: Perez's Multifaceted Approach

Brad Perez, a 27-year-old driver, has carved out a unique path in the world of NASCAR. Unlike many of his peers who started racing at a young age, Perez didn't begin his journey until he was 17, valeting cars to make ends meet. However, this unconventional start has not deterred him from chasing his dreams. Perez proudly calls himself a "working-class racer," a testament to his unwavering determination and the special kind of hustle that has defined his career.When Perez is not competing in the Xfinity Series with Alpha Prime, he dedicates his time to supporting other drivers in NASCAR's top levels. Additionally, he serves as a driving instructor for organizations like the BMW Performance Center and Ford Performance Driving School, honing his skills and sharing his expertise with aspiring racers.

Catching Up and Proving Himself

Perez's late start in racing has not been without its challenges. Most top-level NASCAR drivers began their careers a decade earlier than Perez, giving them a significant head start. However, Perez refuses to be deterred by this disadvantage. In his episode of "Behind the Visor," he explains that he simply needs to remind himself that he deserves to be on the track, competing against drivers with hundreds more starts than him.Perez's approach to racing is marked by a calculated and analytical mindset. He prides himself on being someone who takes "80-percenters" – calculated risks with an 80% chance of success. Perez acknowledges that as he climbs the ranks and reaches the top-10 and top-5 positions, he'll need to take more 50-50 shots, which he believes is the key difference between the top and bottom of the field.

Seizing Opportunities and Proving His Worth

Perez's next race in the Xfinity Series at Kansas Speedway on September 28th with Alpha Prime will be another opportunity for him to showcase his skills and prove how far he has come. As he reflects on his journey, Perez can't help but marvel at the progress he has made, going from valeting cars just a few years ago to now being interviewed by Motorsport.com.Perez's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. His unconventional path to NASCAR success serves as an inspiration to aspiring racers who may not have had the traditional start, but possess the drive and passion to make their dreams a reality.