The Racing Rundown

Saturday, February 21, 2026

How Ryan Johnston Started Racing at Age 5 — The Beginning of “Flyin Ryan”

Every racing career starts somewhere, and for Ohio dirt track driver Ryan Johnston, that journey began long before the No. 11 modified ever hit the track. Long before championships, awards, and feature races, Ryan’s introduction to motorsports started at just five years old behind the wheel of a go-kart.

Today, fans know him as “Flyin Ryan,” but the foundation of that nickname was built during those early laps learning the basics of racing, competition, and confidence.

The First Laps at Thompson Kart Raceway

Ryan Johnston’s racing career began at Thompson Kart Raceway, where he first discovered the excitement of competitive racing. Like many grassroots racers, karting provided the perfect environment to learn car control, racing lines, and race-day discipline.

At five years old, every lap was a learning experience. Kart racing taught Ryan how to:

Understand speed and momentum
Navigate traffic and passing opportunities
Develop consistency lap after lap
Build confidence behind the wheel

Those early seasons laid the groundwork for everything that followed. Kart racing isn’t just an entry point into motorsports — it’s where drivers develop instincts that stay with them throughout their careers.

Moving Up to Junior Sprints at Goods Raceway

As Ryan’s skills developed, the next step came at Goods Raceway, where he advanced into Junior Sprint racing. The transition from go-karts to sprint-style racing introduced new challenges, including increased speed, more powerful equipment, and deeper competition.

Junior Sprint racing helped Ryan refine his racecraft while learning how to adapt to changing dirt track conditions — a skill essential for success in grassroots motorsports.

It didn’t take long for results to follow. Through dedication and steady improvement, Ryan earned major recognition during this stage of his career, including:

2021 Goods Raceway Jr. Sprint Champion
2021 Twin State Driver of the Year

These achievements marked an important milestone and confirmed that Ryan’s progression through the racing ranks was only beginning.

The Dwarf Car Chapter

Continuing his development at Goods Raceway, Ryan moved into the Dwarf Car division, gaining valuable experience with heavier, more complex race cars. This stage of his career focused heavily on learning vehicle setup, race strategy, and adapting driving style to different racing formats.

Each division brought new lessons, helping Ryan build versatility as a driver while preparing him for the next level of competition.

Grassroots racing requires patience and persistence, and every season added knowledge that would later translate into success in modified racing.

Becoming “Flyin Ryan”

As Ryan’s speed and confidence grew, so did his reputation among fans and competitors. His aggressive yet controlled driving style earned him the nickname “Flyin Ryan,” a name that quickly stuck at the track.

At home, family members — especially his mom — still call him “RyRy,” a reminder that behind the helmet is a racer whose journey has always been supported by family and community.

Nicknames are common in dirt track racing culture, and for Ryan, the name reflects both his driving style and the connection he shares with fans who follow his progress each season.

From Grassroots Racing to Modified Competition

All of those early experiences eventually led Ryan Johnston into Sportsman Modified dirt track racing, one of the most competitive divisions in grassroots motorsports.

Today, Ryan competes primarily at Sharon Speedway and regional racing venues, continuing to build on the skills first learned in karting years earlier.

The transition from go-karts to modifieds represents years of dedication, progression, and hard work — a journey shared by many successful dirt track drivers but unique in its own path and milestones.

Career highlights along the way include:

Sportsman Classic Champion (2024)
Hard Charger Award (2024)
Rookie of the Year (2025)
4th Place Overall Points – Sportsman Modifieds at Goods Raceway (2025)

Each accomplishment reflects steady growth and a commitment to improving every time the car hits the track.

Racing Never Stops — Even Off the Track

When Ryan isn’t racing at the speedway, he continues developing his skills through iRacing, a professional-level racing simulator used by drivers worldwide.

Sim racing allows him to practice race strategy, reaction timing, and track awareness between race weekends. Modern motorsports blends real-world experience with digital training, helping drivers stay sharp year-round.

The Journey Continues

From a five-year-old racer at Thompson Kart Raceway to competing in modified dirt track events today, Ryan Johnston’s journey reflects the heart of grassroots racing — progression, persistence, and passion for the sport.

As the R&R Racing team continues through the 2026 season, fans can follow Ryan’s progress, race results, and behind-the-scenes moments right here on the official website.

The story of “Flyin Ryan” is still being written — one race at a time.

Saturday, January 3, 2026

What Is Dirt Track Racing? A Beginner’s Guide for New Fans

If you’ve ever heard engines roaring on a Saturday night or seen cars sliding sideways through a corner covered in clay, you’ve probably witnessed dirt track racing — one of the most exciting and accessible forms of motorsports in America.

For new fans, dirt track racing can look fast, loud, and a little chaotic at first. But once you understand how it works, it quickly becomes one of the most thrilling live sports experiences you can attend.

Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to understanding dirt track racing and what makes it so popular across Ohio and the Midwest.

What Is Dirt Track Racing?

Dirt track racing is a form of motorsports where race cars compete on oval tracks made of clay or dirt rather than asphalt. Drivers race wheel-to-wheel while navigating constantly changing track conditions caused by moisture, weather, and racing grooves.

Unlike pavement racing, dirt racing requires drivers to control controlled slides through corners — often called “drifting” — while maintaining speed and traction.

Because the surface changes throughout the night, no two races are ever the same.

Why Dirt Track Racing Is So Popular

Dirt track racing is considered the heart of grassroots motorsports because it brings fans closer to the action than almost any other racing format.

Fans love dirt racing because:

Cars race close together with frequent passing
Tickets are affordable for families
Drivers are accessible to fans in the pits
Every race feels unpredictable
Local communities support their hometown drivers

Tracks like Sharon Speedway in Ohio attract passionate crowds who return week after week for competitive racing and a strong community atmosphere.

How a Dirt Track Race Night Works

A typical race night follows a structured format designed to give drivers multiple chances to compete.

1. Hot Laps (Practice)

Drivers take practice laps to test car setup and track conditions.

2. Heat Races

Short qualifying races determine starting positions for later events.

3. Feature Race

The main event of the night, where drivers compete for points, trophies, and prize money.

Throughout the evening, track conditions evolve as cars pack down the dirt surface, creating new racing lines and opportunities for passing.

What Types of Cars Race on Dirt Tracks?

Dirt tracks feature multiple racing divisions, each with unique styles and speeds.

One popular division is the Sportsman Modified, where drivers like Ryan Johnston compete. These cars are lightweight, powerful, and designed specifically for sliding through dirt corners at high speeds.

Modified race cars require precision driving, quick reactions, and constant adjustments based on track conditions.

Why Drivers Slide Through Corners

One of the most exciting parts of dirt track racing is watching cars enter turns sideways.

Drivers intentionally slide the car to maintain momentum through corners. This technique helps the car rotate while keeping speed high — something that looks dramatic but requires tremendous skill and control.

Fans often describe dirt racing as controlled chaos, but experienced drivers understand exactly how to balance throttle, steering, and traction.

The Fan Experience at a Dirt Track

For many people, attending a dirt track race becomes a tradition.

Unlike major stadium sports, fans are often able to:

Walk through pit areas (when permitted)
Meet drivers after races
Take photos with race cars
Talk directly with teams and crews

This connection between drivers and fans is a major reason grassroots racing continues to grow.

At tracks like Sharon Speedway, race nights bring together families, longtime racing fans, and newcomers experiencing the sport for the first time.

Why Dirt Track Racing Keeps Growing

Dirt track racing remains popular because it combines competition, community, and accessibility. Many professional racers began their careers on dirt tracks, making grassroots racing an important part of motorsports culture.

Drivers continue to push their skills every weekend, adapting to changing tracks while competing against strong local talent.

For fans, every race night offers something different — new battles, unexpected finishes, and unforgettable moments.

Experience Dirt Track Racing for Yourself

If you’ve never attended a dirt track race, there’s no better way to understand the excitement than seeing it live. The energy of the crowd, the sound of engines, and the action on the track create an experience unlike any other sport.

You can follow Ryan Johnston’s upcoming race appearances on the Racing Schedule page and experience Ohio dirt track racing firsthand.

Friday, December 19, 2025

How iRacing Helps Me Prepare for Real Dirt Track Races

When I’m not at the racetrack, I’m usually still racing — just on my computer.

A lot of people ask what I do between race weekends, and the answer is iRacing. It’s a racing simulator that lets drivers practice and compete online using tracks and cars that feel really close to real racing. For me, it’s one of the best ways to stay sharp when I’m not in the No. 11 car.

What Is iRacing?

iRacing is basically a racing simulator where you use a steering wheel and pedals instead of a controller. The tracks are scanned to look and feel realistic, and you race against real people from all over the world.

It’s not just a video game — a lot of real race car drivers use it to practice and learn.

I run dirt races on there because it helps me work on things I use every weekend at the track.

Practicing Without Being at the Track

One of the hardest parts of racing is that you can’t always practice whenever you want. Real race cars take time, money, and a full crew to get ready.

With iRacing, I can jump in and practice anytime.

It helps me work on:

hitting the right racing line
throttle control
reacting faster to other drivers
learning patience during races

Even though it’s virtual, you still have to focus and make quick decisions just like in real racing.

Sim Racing vs Real Dirt Track Racing

Sim racing and real racing are different, but they also have a lot in common.

What’s similar:

You still race real people
Strategy matters
You have to stay consistent
Mistakes still cost you positions

What’s different:

You don’t feel the bumps or G-forces
Track conditions don’t change exactly the same
There’s no dirt flying at your visor

Nothing replaces being at the actual racetrack, but sim racing helps keep your brain in racing mode.

Training Between Race Weekends

During the week, iRacing helps me stay ready for the next race. Instead of waiting until Saturday night to get back in a car, I can keep practicing and improving every day.

Sometimes I’ll run longer races just to work on staying calm and focused. Other times I practice starts or racing in traffic since that happens a lot in real dirt races.

It also helps me learn how to stay patient, which is really important when you’re trying to move forward through the field.

Why Sim Racing Helps Real Drivers

A lot of drivers use simulators now because racing is just as mental as it is physical. You have to think fast and react fast.

iRacing helps me:

stay confident
learn from mistakes safely
try different racing approaches
keep improving between races

Then when race day comes around, I already feel ready to compete.

Back to the Real Track

Even though I spend time racing online, nothing beats being at the track with the crew, hearing the engines, and racing in front of fans.

But iRacing helps me prepare so when I climb into the car at Sharon Speedway or another track, I feel more ready every time.

Racing doesn’t really stop during the week — it just moves from the dirt track to the simulator until the next green flag drops.

Sunday, July 6, 2025

Battle Wounds and Big Effort: My Race at Goods Raceway

Hey everyone — it’s Ryan here!

Last night was another wild night at Goods Raceway. I wanted to give you all a little update straight from me, because it was definitely one to remember.

First of all… Chip got some battle wounds. My car didn’t exactly make it through the night looking pretty. But that’s just part of racing — you push hard, you get in the mix, and sometimes the track fights back!

I was really driving my butt off out there. I gave it everything I had, lap after lap, trying to work my way up and stay out of trouble.

I’m super proud of how hard I drove, though. You win some, you lose some — but you always learn. That’s what my dad says, and he’s right.

Thanks to everyone who came out to watch and cheer me on. And big thanks to my family, my team, and all of you following my journey. I’ll be back at it next weekend, ready to fight again. You can count on that!

See you at the track!

— Ryan 🏁

Friday, May 9, 2025

Finally—Racing Season Is Here!

By Ryan, age 12

Hey everyone! I’m sooooo excited because tomorrow is the first race of the season at Good’s Raceway! After two whole weeks of getting rained out at my favorite dirt track, I almost thought we’d have to wait forever. But the sun is finally coming out, the sky will be all blue, and I can’t wait to get back in the #11 car and kick up some dust!

I’ve been counting down the days like crazy. Every morning I wake up and check the weather—“Is it going to rain? Is it going to rain?!”—but nope, it’s all sunshine.

This year is going to be AWESOME not only because the racing starts, but also because it’s going to be summer soon! I can’t wait for vacations, and s’mores around the campfire. Racing and summer just go hand in hand!

I’ve also got my lucky racing socks ready and a brand-new notebook to write down lap times, pit crew jokes, and all the cool stuff that happens at the track. I might even start a “Race Day Snack Review” column—there’s nothing better than nachos and iced lemonade when you’re cheering from the grandstands!

It felt like our season was on hold, but now we’re blasting off into the start line faster than ever. See you at Good’s Raceway at 7 PM tomorrow—bring your noise makers, your signs, and your big smiles. Let’s make this the best season ever!

Sunday, April 6, 2025

Personal Touch: A Little More About Me Beyond the Track

Hey everyone! It’s Ryan here, and I wanted to take a break from all the racing talk and share a bit about myself outside of the track. So much of my life revolves around the #11 car, but there’s a lot more to me than just the driver behind the wheel. I thought I’d take this opportunity to tell you a few fun facts about me, share some of the challenges I’ve faced as a young racer, and talk about what keeps me going every day.

Fun Facts About Me Outside of Racing

I’ve spent so much of my life on the track, but when I’m not racing, here’s a peek into what I’m up to:

Hobbies & Interests: Outside of racing, I’m a big fan of pc gaming. It’s my way to relax and recharge when I need to step away from the chaos of race day.
Favorite Food: I’ve gotta say, I can never get enough of pizza. It’s the one meal I could eat every single day if I had the chance. Seriously.
Personal Role Models: I look up to a lot of people, but one person who really stands out to me is my dad. He’s taught me a lot about life, and doing what is right and I try to live by that every day.

Challenges I’ve Overcome as a Young Racer

Getting to this point in racing has come with its fair share of challenges. But every setback has taught me something new, and it’s all been part of the journey. Here are a few of the obstacles I’ve faced along the way:

Starting Young: Racing has been my dream since I was a kid. But starting out young comes with a lot of challenges, like juggling school, training, and trying to gain experience while staying focused. It’s not always easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Financial Struggles: There were times when my family didn’t know how we were going to make it to the next race. We worked really hard to make my dream happen, and there were a lot of sacrifices along the way. I’ll always be grateful to my family for doing everything they could to make this possible.
Handling Pressure: Racing isn’t just about speed—it’s also about mental toughness. The pressure to perform but no matter how high the stakes, I know I’ve got to stay focused and keep pushing.

What Motivates Me to Keep Pushing Forward

Racing is more than just a sport to me. It’s my life, and the reason I keep pushing through all the highs and lows is simple:

My Family: I’ve said it before, but I owe everything to my family. They’ve been by my side from day one—whether it was cheering me on or helping me out when things got tough. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
The Love of the Sport: At the end of the day, racing is what I love. The thrill of being behind the wheel, the adrenaline, and the drive to improve—it’s what keeps me coming back, race after race.
Proving Myself: Every race is a chance for me to prove not only to my fans but to myself that I can overcome anything and continue to grow. I’m not here just to race—I’m here to leave a legacy and show that I’m capable of so much more.

Looking Forward

As I keep pushing forward, I know there’s still so much more to accomplish. Every race is a new opportunity to learn, to grow, and to make my supporters proud. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me, and I’m so thankful to have you all along for the ride.

Thank You for Being Part of the Journey

I truly appreciate all the love and support from each and every one of you. You’re the reason I keep fighting and giving it my all on the track. Let’s keep racing forward together!

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Ryan Partners with One of a Kind Pet Rescue: Racing to Help Animals in Need!

At R & R Racing, we know that speed isn’t the only thing that matters—heart does, too! That’s why we’re excited to announce that Ryan has officially partnered with One of a Kind Pet Rescue, a nonprofit dedicated to saving and finding loving homes for animals in need. This partnership means a lot to Ryan, who not only has a passion for racing but also a big love for animals.

Why One of a Kind Pet Rescue?

One of a Kind Pet Rescue is a no-kill shelter committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals. They provide medical care, love, and second chances to pets who need them most. Every dog and cat in their care is just waiting for the perfect family to take them home.

Ryan is proud to support this mission and help raise awareness for pet adoption. Just like in racing, every second counts when it comes to finding a home for these amazing animals.

Racing for a Cause 🏁🐾

With this partnership, Ryan hopes to use his platform to promote adoption events, share stories of pets looking for homes, and inspire race fans to consider adding a rescue pet to their family. Keep an eye out for special features on social media where Ryan will introduce adoptable pets and spotlight the amazing work being done by One of a Kind Pet Rescue!

Meet Pepper – Looking for a Home! 🐶

One of the first pets Ryan is helping to feature is Pepper, a sweet and adorable pup who is ready to meet her forever family! At just 45 pounds, she’s the perfect size for adventure and snuggles. If you’re looking for a new best friend, Pepper might just be the one for you!

How You Can Help

Want to be part of this incredible mission? Here’s how you can help: 🐾 Adopt: Open your home to a rescue pet and change a life forever. 🐾 Donate: Support One of a Kind Pet Rescue in providing care to animals in need. 🐾 Spread the Word: Share Ryan’s posts and encourage others to consider pet adoption!

At R & R Racing, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to win—whether it’s on the track or finding a forever home. Let’s race toward a brighter future for rescue pets together!

Stay tuned for more updates, adoption stories, and ways to get involved. Because racing and rescue go hand in paw! 🏎️🐾

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