Hathaway's New Era
 

For many drivers across the U.S., racing is a family affair. It’s not uncommon for drivers to have relatives accompany them to the track every weekend to support them in some fashion. Holland native Josh Hathaway is no exception, as he prepares to be a rookie driver for the 3rd time in 5 years with his father (Bob) in the pits as his crew chief and his mother (Debbie) and brother (Justin) supporting him from the stands.

Hathaway started his racing career 4 seasons ago at Holland Motorsports Complex, where he began in the 4-cylinder Hornet division at age 15. He then joined the Pro-Fours, where he earned rookie-of-the-year honors in 2007 and his first feature win in 2009. Josh and his family have decided it is now time to move up once again, and in 2010, Hathaway Racing will have their familiar black and red #43 back on the track. Only this time, instead of their 4-cylinder Ford Mustang, Josh and family will be bringing their Ford Fusion bodied Late Model to compete in the LAMOT division. Right now, the family is still getting the car ready and hopes to have it ready for the McKinley Mall Car Show May 1st through May 8th. In addition to his family, supporters of Josh in his next rookie season at Holland include Lar’s Auto Shop, Shelley Collision, Napa Auto Parts in East Aurora and Strategic Materials.

After meeting Josh at the Holland driver registration party in February, he agreed to do a short interview for local race enthusiasts.

How did you get into racing?
Hathaway: My entire family has been involved in racing for years. We used to go to Holland a few times each season to watch my uncle, Larry Havens, when he was still racing.

#43 Larry Havens earned Holland track championships in '80, '92, and '93.

Who have you learned the most from about racing?
Hathaway: My uncle Larry, Wayne Baker and Joe Barber. My uncle helped us when we needed to change the transmission in our Pro-Four car. He also gave us help with our setups. Wayne Baker was our engine builder and helped us set up our go-kart at Bliss Speedway. Joe Barber, the owner of Bliss, also gave us advice and assistance when we were still racing there.

What are your racing aspirations?
Hathaway: To just become competitive over time and eventually go after a championship.

Why did you choose to run in the late model division?
Hathaway: Heading into the 2009 season, we were looking to move up from the Pro-Four division. About halfway through last season, we chose to run the LAMOT class because we wanted to compete in a faster class but we didn't want to have to buy tires and constantly make changes to the car. Living in Holland and being so close to track, it is literally our ‘home track’, so that was a factor as well.

What do you anticipate will be your biggest adjustment this season?
Hathaway: The handling of the car because of its increased weight and power. My Pro-Four car liked the bottom line and couldn't run with the other cars when in the high lane. From what I have seen, the LAMOT cars can run both lanes and still be competitive.

What have been your high and low points in racing so far?
Hathaway: Winning the Junior II division Go-Kart Championship at Bliss Speedway in 2006 was special to me because a title is the highest award in racing. I think a title is ultimately what every driver wants, but there can only be one.

In 2004 my kart was not competitive. The season was a struggle because it was my second year of racing and the year before I had won twice. I was hoping that that success would carry over. Later that year, we bought a new kart and slowly started becoming more competitive. In 2005, we became competitive again with the newer equipment .

What do you like best about racing?
Hathaway: The competition and speed. The competition in LAMOT seems fairly even because the cars have the same engine requirements and handling is the key to good finishes.

What do you like least about racing?
Hathaway: Definitely having to fix the car after somebody else wrecks you.

What is a typical race day like?
Hathaway: On race day, we usually get the car out of the garage in the morning. My brother Justin and I clean the dust off and then we usually check the tire pressures. After lunch, we make sure everything that we need for the night is in the trailer and truck, and then my dad and I head to the track and get ready for practice in the afternoon.

How do you like to spend your time away from racing?
Hathaway: I'm currently going to Medaille College in Buffalo to become a Veterinary Technician. In my down time, I enjoy playing racing and sports video games.

Good luck to Josh and his family in the 2010 season!

Source: Andy Ticco/LAMOT Press Release
Posted: April 9, 2010

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