ANGUS, ON – It’s been several seasons since we’ve seen veteran Shawn Murray behind the wheel of a racecar on a regular basis – however, in 2023, the longtime fixture of Ontario’s short track scene will be back fulltime at Sunset Speedway.
The former Mini Stock, Super Stock and Limited Late Model front runner has converted a former Brandon Watson-owned Super Late Model to compete in Sunset’s new NASCAR Modified division, with plans on contending for a first career Sunset Speedway championship.
“I imagine it’s going to take a bit to get back into [a rhythm] for sure,” admits Murray when asked about returning from his extended hiatus. “The goal is to get out for a lot of pre-season testing do that I can get comfortable in the car before Opening Night. I’m lucky enough to have some great help in prepping the car all off-season to make sure we hit the track with a fantastic piece right away”
Murray’s self-imposed time away from active competition was for good reason, as he’s worked to build his Redline Signs and Apparel business into one of the most sought-after graphic design businesses in all of Southern Ontario.
Now, after a near-decade since his last full season, Murray is ready to meet the challenge of the upstart NASCAR Open Wheel Modified division head-on.
“It’s going to take lots of seat time to make sure our program is capable of running up front with the rest of the teams on this roster,” explains the Angus, ON veteran. “We’re definitely behind all of them as far as experience goes. They’ve all been running these cars for a few years now. So, hopefully, we can stay on top of our program and work our way to the front”
“I actually have two weekends where I can’t be at the speedway, so I’ll have Tim Watson filling in for me. And, frankly, nobody knows the ins and outs of this chassis better than Tim. I’m hoping he can keep me pointed in the right direction all season”
When probed on his team’s goals for the 2023 season, Murray remains grounded in his expectations. However, there’s no questioning the focus with which he’s entering his comeback tour with.
“As a racer I’d love to say I that our goal is to come out and win every single race,” laughs Murray with a shrug. “But, realistically, if we can run inside the top-10 right from opening night and then work our way into the top-5, I’ll be a pretty happy guy.”
Shawn Murray’s foray into the NASCAR Open Wheel Modified division is powered by Seaton Structures, Central Ontario Spray Foam, Gaunt Collision, The Fallen Riders Support Team, B&B Towing, RacingRadios.ca, Redline Signs & Apparel and Barrie Frame and Alignment.