Dustin Smith, the ASA Southern Super Series Rookie of the Year, made his debut at Daytona as part of the ARCA Menards Series Road to Daytona program.
The ARCA Menards Series annual Daytona test often sees several short track stars take the high banks of Daytona International Speedway for the first time. Dustin Smith was one of the aces to get his first reps in at the World Center of Racing.
Prior to the test at the 2.5 mile tri-oval, the largest track Smith had raced on was half miles. Add in the 31 degree banking at Daytona, which is almost double the average short track and Smith had a very unique experience compared to what he is used to.
Andy Hillenburg’s Fast Track Racing has been part of the ARCA Road to Daytona program for over 20 years, and the former ARCA champion served as Smith’s instructor for his first visit to Daytona.
“Dustin did a great job, he adapted very quickly to the ARCA car and the track,” said Hillenburg. “He should be good to go for Superspeedway races and we would like to have an opportunity to work with him down the road.”
Smith put down some fast laps very quickly, posting a time that put him solidly in the top 10 of the 65 drivers taking times in the morning session and the fastest Fast Track Driver.
“Mr. Andy (Hillenburg) really has a great group of people working for him. Having him coach me around the track really got me up and going really quick,” offered Smith. “I had a blast, I really appreciate everyone that helped make this happen. Hopefully we can find some sponsorship when we get home so this might lead to another opportunity.”
The 2025 ARCA Menards Series season will kick off with the 62nd Annual Daytona ARCA 200 at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, February 15. The race will be televised live on FOX starting at 12 p.m. ET and will also be broadcast nationwide on select affiliates of the MRN Radio network.
