Flat Rock, Mich. —Flat Rock Speedway racer George Rangel competed at the legendary New Smyrna Speedway in Florida for Speedweeks.

For Rangel, the opportunity to race at one of short track racing’s most iconic venues is more than just another start; it’s a bucket list moment.

“I have always wanted to race at New Smyrna. That started due to Rick Sheppard racing the ARCA race at Daytona for Charlie Newby in 1993 and also with Rick bringing his Super Late Model to New Smyrna that same week.” Said Rangel. “Last year, Paul Pelletier and I came up with a plan to run a Modified. For the past three years, we have been attending the World Series of Stock Car Racing at New Smyrna Speedway. With help from Paul, we were able to make it there this year. The car looked great but unfortunately, we had some issues, so we were unable to complete the last few races.”

George wanted to take a moment to thank some of the people who made it possible. “I want to say thank you to Paul for all that he did with the car and also a huge thank you to my son Jonny, my daughter Heidi, my fiancé Ayesha, and my son's girlfriend Alyssa.” Said Rangel. “And a big thank you to Roger Blackstock, Jeff Metdepenningen, Ronnie Keyes, and Rick Sheppard for all of their help and support.”

Rangel ended by expressing his excitement for the 2026 racing season at Flat Rock Speedway which starts on Saturday, May 2^nd. With the goal in mind to make it down to New Smyrna again in 2027.