Kyle Larson Shocks Fans Trusts Toddler Rowdies to Dominate Tulsa Shootout
Kyle Larson, the NASCAR Cup Series champion, just dropped a bombshell at the Tulsa Shootout, revealing a surprising twist to his success. Known for his talent on dirt tracks, Larson used advice from young racers to fuel his victory at the SageNet Center. But it wasn’t just the veterans guiding him; Larson relied on a group of 8- to 12-year-olds—the so-called “toddler rowdies“—to sharpen his strategy and dominate the race. His admission of listening to these young talents stunned fans and highlighted the unpredictable nature of racing.
Relying on the Unexpected: How Young Guns Shaped Larson’s Wins
Despite the impressive track record Larson brings, which includes two Chili Bowl wins, his initial start at the Tulsa Shootout wasn’t perfect. After struggling through the heat races, he took full advantage of the tips shared by the young dirt racers, who coached him through the qualifiers and into the heart of the race. Larson didn’t hold back, sharing a humorous yet humble shocking confession: “I’m relying on the turn 2 toddler rowdies… A bunch of 8- to 12-year-olds telling me where to run!” His win streak in the 2025 Tulsa Shootout was in full motion after receiving this unexpected help.
Kyle Larson’s Big Win: Back-to-Back Glory at Tulsa
After the early struggles, Larson bounced back in true champion style. He clinched his first major win in the 30-lap Winged Outlaw race, followed by a wild-winged A-Class victory. These wins not only boosted his Golden Driller count to five but also showcased his ability to thrive under pressure. Larson wasn’t just racing against the clock; he was also racing against traffic and his fierce competitors. As Larson put it, “It feels good. So we got two more to try to get it done from back.” His focus shifted to three wins in a row as he geared up for the non-winged race.
A Nail-Biting Clash: Larson vs. Bell
When it came down to the final moments of the Outlaw Non-wing event, fans were treated to a thrilling faceoff between Larson and Christopher Bell. The two stars of the dirt racing world seemed locked in a fierce battle that seemed to channel their rivalry from NASCAR. Larson, known for his daring moves, pulled off a Hail Mary attempt, hugging the outside lane and coming close to passing Bell. However, in the final lap, Bell, with an experienced edge, held onto his position, narrowly defeating Larson. “Thank you, Joe Gibbs! Live for moments like that,” Bell said, acknowledging the support of his team owner, Joe Gibbs.
Larson’s Humble Approach to Defeat
Larson, despite the loss, didn’t let the setback discourage him. He reflected on his race and the intense competition, saying, “When we caught traffic, I moved back to the bottom and got by those two guys.” Yet, despite this strategy, lapped cars blocked his lane, making the final stretch a nerve-wracking experience. With two laps to go, Larson switched lanes, attempting to surprise Bell, but the JGR driver responded swiftly, maintaining his position until the checkered flag. This marked another unforgettable battle that will likely set the stage for even more intense rivalry in the upcoming Chili Bowl.
What’s Next for Larson and Bell? The Rivalry Heats Up
Though Larson’s defeat in this event is a setback, it sets the stage for an even fiercer showdown at the Chili Bowl, where Larson will seek redemption against Bell, who already holds a commanding three-time champion title. As both drivers look forward to this iconic event, the intensity of their rivalry on dirt tracks is bound to deliver even more thrilling action. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see who will claim the 2025 Chili Bowl title—will Larson finally draw even with Bell, or will the JGR star extend his lead?
Conclusion: The Future of Dirt Track Racing
This Tulsa Shootout was more than just a race; it was a display of strategy, mentorship, and the raw competitive spirit that drives Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell. The surprising role of the young mentors at the SageNet Center adds a unique twist to the already high-stakes world of dirt track racing. As both stars look to the future, the rivalry between Larson and Bell promises to escalate into one of the most exciting racing stories of 2025.
