On a remarkable night at the 2025 Chili Bowl, Matt Wood Racing (MWR) made history by securing three top-five finishes in the A-main event. Shane Golobic, Ryan Bernal, and Landon Brooks, who primarily race sprint cars, demonstrated exceptional skill in midget racing. Despite not focusing on midget racing as their primary discipline, the trio managed to place third, fourth, and fifth respectively, showcasing their versatility and the team's preparation prowess. The week leading up to the main event saw several strong performances from MWR drivers, including a second-place finish by Golobic and a win by Brooks. The success was attributed to the team's California roots and their ability to adapt to challenging track conditions.

The journey to this historic achievement began months before the event. MWR kept the midget cars stored at the back of their shop until about a month before the race, when they were brought out for meticulous preparation. This year, the team's efforts paid off handsomely. The week kicked off with impressive showings from the MWR drivers. On Monday, Shane Golobic ran neck-and-neck with Kyle Larson, finishing just behind him. The following day, Landon Brooks claimed victory in the preliminaries, setting the tone for the rest of the week. By Thursday, Ryan Bernal had secured a second-place finish, ensuring all three drivers would compete in the big show.

As the track conditions evolved over the week, becoming increasingly demanding, the MWR drivers thrived. Their familiarity with aggressive racing tactics, honed through years of sprint car experience, proved advantageous. In the A-main, Brooks initially challenged front-runners like Larson and Daison Pursley but eventually settled into fifth place. Meanwhile, Golobic and Bernal climbed to third and fourth positions, capping off an extraordinary performance for the team. The trio's success was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to the team's collective effort.

Reflecting on the week, the MWR drivers expressed pride in their accomplishments. Brooks noted that achieving three top-five finishes was "really good" for the team, especially considering their limited focus on midget racing. Bernal emphasized the unique challenge of racing against teammates in cars he helped prepare, adding a layer of complexity to the competition. For Golobic, the podium finish was particularly meaningful, as it represented both his driving prowess and his role as crew chief for the other two drivers. The team's performance highlighted their adaptability and teamwork, making it a memorable year for Matt Wood Racing.

The 2025 Chili Bowl will be remembered as a standout moment for Matt Wood Racing. Not only did they compete successfully against teams with significantly more resources and experience in midget racing, but they also achieved one of the best results of any team present. The combination of talent, preparation, and strategic racing ensured that MWR left a lasting impression on the motorsport community. This success story is a reminder that sometimes, the underdogs can rise to the occasion and deliver unforgettable performances.