Carson Hocevar to replace new papa Johnny VanDoorn in Redbud 400

Johnny VanDoorn will not defend his Redbud 400 crown on Monday night.

Due to the birth of daughter Allison over the weekend, the 32-year-old will not compete in the marquee Super Late Model event at Anderson Speedway just north of Indianapolis.

However, the No. 71 will still make the trip with T.K. Racing owners Tom and Lisa Kmak placing Carson Hocevar behind the wheel instead.

in Monday’s Redbud 400. Anderson Speedway plays host to the keystone ARCA CRA Super Series event, which will pay $15,000 to the race winner. Hocevar had already planned to compete in his family owned entry — the same car that won the season opening event last month at I-44 Raceway in Lebanon, Missouri.

“I’m stoked and thankful to get to run the Redbud 400 for the first time, and even more excited for the opportunity to jump in the No. 71 this weekend for TK Racing,” Hocevar said in a press release. “With Johnny winning last year and our successful test, I’m very confident that we can have a shot to win towards the end of the long 400 laps on Monday night.”

The No. 71 will now carry support from usual Hocevar partners GM Parts Now in addition to Precision Fleet Image and Lisa Thomas Salon.

Butch VanDoorn will crew chief the car — continuing a partnership that began in previous races this season. Zach Dunson and the usual crew of the No. 14 will also attend in support of the combined effort.

The Redbud 400 in Anderson, Indiana, can be seen live via Pay-per-view on Speed51.com.

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