Dean Raine #13

Don’t worry. Be Happy.

 

Cars have always been a part of my life. My dad’s passion for them naturally grew on me, and I spent countless hours watching Top Gear, which introduced me to the world of Formula 1. From there, my obsession with racing only deepened as I discovered NASCAR, WEC, Trans-Am, INDYCAR, and eventually, karting.

But watching wasn’t enough. It wasn’t until I tried rental karting at a local water park that I realized my love for driving was far greater than just being a fan. After some research I found Octane Raceway, and at 12 years old I worked my way into the adult karts. League nights quickly became my proving ground, where I was competing against and beating adults, solidifying my hunger for more.

After a year at Octane and plenty of convincing I finally got my first real kart, a 2012 Righetti Ridolfi. I was inexperienced, underpowered, and overweight, but I refused to let that stop me. Thanks to the guidance of David and others who shared their knowledge, I learned more than I ever thought possible. Each lap, each race, and each mistake shaped me into the driver I am today.

Sim racing gives me my fix when I can’t be at the track. I’ve spent weeks locked in my room putting down laps on Assetto Corsa Competizione, Kart Racing Pro, iRacing, and more, constantly sharpening my racecraft and feeding my competitive drive.

Now, with Next Level Karting, I’m fighting for positions I once only dreamed about. I’m incredibly grateful to David Haraldsen for inviting me to his team and for everything he does for us. His support and dedication have been a huge part of my growth as a driver. None of this would be possible without my dad and especially my grandpa, whose encouragement allows me to chase my dreams and push myself further every season.

My journey is far from finished, but every time I get in the kart I’m reminded why I fell in love with racing in the first place.