From humble beginnings in the 1970s, the Vollbrecht family has carved out a storied legacy in the world of dirt track racing. This narrative begins with Butch Vollbrecht, whose passion for racing was ignited through his work with Ray Haase, a prominent figure in Nebraska's racing scene. Over decades, this passion evolved into a multigenerational commitment to the sport, involving Todd Vollbrecht and his son Nelson. Each generation brought its own unique contributions, from building cars with recycled parts to navigating the competitive landscape of various racing divisions. Today, the family continues to thrive as a tight-knit unit, blending tradition with innovation on the racetrack.

In the mid-20th century, Ray Haase, a young entrepreneur, laid the foundation for what would become a vibrant racing community in Norfolk with the establishment of Riviera Raceway. It was here that Butch Vollbrecht found himself immersed in the racing culture, eventually transitioning from mechanic to driver in the late 1970s. His brief yet impactful stint in Hobby Stocks not only introduced him to the thrill of competition but also paved the way for his son Todd’s eventual entry into the sport. Todd, who grew up surrounded by racing legends such as Reggie Roth and Gene Brudigan, inherited his father's love for racing and began his career in 1985. Starting in Hobby Stocks, he progressively moved through various divisions, including taxi cabs, bombers, sportsman, and modified classes, before retiring in 2007.

Todd’s retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter as his son Nelson stepped onto the racing stage at the tender age of 14. Following in the footsteps of his predecessors, Nelson started in Hobby Stocks before advancing to the SportMod class. With his father now serving as a key member of his pit crew, Nelson embarked on an ambitious journey that took him across state lines in pursuit of IMCA national points. After achieving notable success, including two Nebraska state points championships, Nelson transitioned to the late model division in search of greater challenges. He expressed a desire to race freely without the constraints of point systems, underscoring his commitment to pushing boundaries within the sport.

While much of the Vollbrecht family's involvement centers around driving, other members contribute off the track. Todd’s younger brother Tony, skilled in bodywork and aluminum fabrication, supports the family's efforts by occasionally working on Nelson’s car. Tony’s son Parker represents another branch of the family tree, having participated in the sport compact and Hobby Stock classes over the past few years. The family dynamic is further enriched by the presence of Amy, Nelson’s wife Brianna, their children Taya, Alyx, and Grady, as well as extended relatives like Donna and Megan. Together, they form a cohesive unit that embodies the spirit of racing as both a profession and a cherished tradition.

Looking ahead, the Vollbrecht family envisions the possibility of welcoming a fourth generation into the fold. Already showing signs of interest, Nelson’s children may soon follow in their forebears' tire tracks. Whether it be through go-karts or other introductory experiences, the family remains committed to nurturing this potential while preserving the values and traditions that have defined their journey thus far. Racing, for the Vollbrechts, is more than just a hobby—it is a way of life that unites them across generations.