CHESLEY, ON- The 2013 Sauble Speedway season was one largely based on consistency for second-generation star Josh Stade. However, as the 2014 schedule looms, the rising star is ready to throw his conservative approach to the wayside in favour of challenging for race wins.
“Our main goal last season was a strong finish in the point standings”, states the Chesley, ON native. “We accomplished that, we finished 5th in points, but went winless on the season. I’m going to do everything in my power to make sure that’s not the case in 2014.”
The son of multi- time Sauble champion Duane Stade, Josh maintains that racing has been the primary form of bonding for the close-knit family.
“Growing up, I would always hear stories about how great of a wheelman was Dad was when he was racing”, smiles Stade. “A growing business and a family took him away from the sport, but when I was old enough to race he jumped back in with both feet. He’s my Crew Chief and number one fan on race day. It definitely wouldn’t be possible without him”.
With his 2014 plans in place, Stade joins a growing list of championship contenders that has pushed Sauble’s Ltd. Late Model division into the spotlight like never before.
“I think alot of people were underrating the Sauble roster a couple seasons ago”, offers Stade. “But top to bottom, it’s one of the best in the province. Racing against guys like Scott McTeer, Tom Gibbons and Jason Parker has made me the competitor I am today. I’m proud to call myself a Sauble driver”.
And with the elevated levels of competition at Sauble, comes an elevated urge to put his #17 back in victory lane.
“I was happy with our conservative strategy last year”, explains Stade. “We designed a game plan and stuck with it”.
“But this year”, he continues “will be completely different. My fans and competitors are going to see a whole new ‘Josh Stade’. We’re not leaving anything on the table. We’re racing for wins every single night, and we’ll let the points sort themselves out”.
Stade’s 2014 season will be made possible thanks to MEI Paving, APC of Chesley and Hanover, Upper Canada Tile, Kunkel Bus Lines, Chesley Kinsmen and Ken’s Truck Painting.
To learn more about ‘Prime Time’ Josh Stade visit the Stade Motorsports page on Facebook.
By Spencer Lewis
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