McFarland Acquires Pro Late Model to Sharpen Racing Skills and Content Creation

Statesville, NC – [Date] – Garrett Mitchell, widely recognized in the motorsport community as Cleetus McFarland, has taken a significant step in his racing development by acquiring a Pro Late Model chassis. This strategic move, influenced by prominent figures in the sport including Dale Earnhardt Jr., aims to bolster Mitchell’s racecraft and provide a platform for continued content creation, aligning with his ambitious trajectory within NASCAR.

The unveiling of Mitchell’s new machine, a No. 33 Rette Jones Racing Pro Late Model, was documented in a recent YouTube video, offering fans a glimpse into his latest pursuit. The acquisition signifies a focused effort to refine his skills in a competitive environment that demands precision, strategy, and close-quarters racing. This initiative is particularly pertinent as Mitchell continues to ascend the ranks of professional stock car racing.

To acclimatize himself with the new equipment and the intricacies of Pro Late Model racing, Mitchell recently completed a comprehensive testing session at Tri-County Speedway. The day, while largely successful, included a minor spin, a common occurrence during familiarization with a new car and track. Despite this, the test provided valuable data and a clearer understanding of the car’s handling characteristics. Mitchell has indicated his intention to compete in an upcoming late model event at Berlin Raceway in Michigan later this year. Furthermore, he plans to integrate his Pro Late Model into events hosted at the Freedom Factory, a 3/8-mile oval he owns in Florida, leveraging his personal facility for development.

Mitchell articulated his motivations for the purchase, stating, "Everyone told me that these Pro Late Models are so fun to drive. I’ll get a lot of experience for a lot cheaper than what I have been doing, just going and racing ARCA all the time – which I still plan to do. But this is going to give me some racecraft that I desperately needed. Racing around a lot of cars, close quarters, that’s the type of stuff where you just can’t get good at it unless you do it a lot. And so, I’m hoping this Pro Late Model is going to give me the opportunity to get a lot more racecraft."

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This sentiment underscores the recognized value of Pro Late Model racing as a foundational discipline for aspiring stock car drivers. These series often feature intense competition and demand a high level of driver engagement, providing invaluable experience in car control, tire management, and race strategy. The cost-effectiveness compared to higher-tier series also makes it an attractive option for drivers seeking to build their resumes without incurring prohibitive expenses.

Mitchell’s initial impressions after his first extended run in the Pro Late Model were overwhelmingly positive. He described the experience as "intense" but lauded the car’s performance. "This thing is way better than all of the other cars I’ve been driving," Mitchell remarked. "Dude, it’s got so much grip, and it doesn’t have so much horsepower that you instantly get in trouble all the time. And the one time it slid, it actually drove okay. It wasn’t terrifying because I wasn’t going 180(mph). My neck is literally burning – you’re almost turning the whole time, so it’s a little more intense than I’m used to. This thing is sick. The brakes are crazy good."

The significant grip and manageable power delivery of the Pro Late Model are crucial elements for developing racecraft. Unlike the extreme power-to-weight ratios of some higher series, Pro Late Models allow drivers to explore the limits of traction and refine their ability to maintain momentum through corners. The effectiveness of the braking system is also a key differentiator, enabling more aggressive corner entry and exit strategies.

Mitchell’s involvement in NASCAR is part of a broader career development plan, supported by a two-year agreement with Richard Childress Racing (RCR). This partnership provides him access to the renowned organization’s extensive resources and expertise, crucial for navigating the steep learning curve in professional motorsport. His next scheduled NASCAR appearance is the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event at Talladega Superspeedway on October 23rd.

His racing journey in NASCAR has seen notable moments, including a strong performance in the ARCA Menards Series race at Talladega Superspeedway earlier this year, where he finished a close second to Andy Jankowiak. This result highlighted his potential, particularly on superspeedways. He has also made his debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series, encounters that have underscored the continuous need for improvement and adaptation.

Mitchell has been candid about the challenges of transitioning into top-tier racing. The recent inclusion of the Pro Late Model into his development regimen is a direct response to the need for more practical, hands-on experience in wheel-to-wheel competition. The Pro Late Model, a staple in grassroots and regional racing, serves as an ideal proving ground for developing the nuanced skills required for success in NASCAR.

Rette Jones Racing, the team behind Mitchell’s new Pro Late Model, has a well-established reputation for developing talent in late model competition. The team has a history of success in various late model touring series and has been instrumental in the careers of numerous drivers who have advanced to national NASCAR series. Their involvement suggests a structured approach to Mitchell’s training, focusing on refining his technical abilities and race management.

The Freedom Factory, Mitchell’s owned facility, adds another dimension to his development strategy. By hosting his own late model events, he can create a controlled yet competitive environment for practice and racing. This not only benefits his personal development but also contributes to the growth of grassroots motorsport and provides a unique content opportunity. The ability to analyze his own performances and those of his competitors in a familiar setting offers a distinct advantage.

The acquisition of the Pro Late Model is more than just a purchase of race equipment; it represents a strategic investment in Mitchell’s future as a professional race car driver. The blend of simulator training, testing, and actual competition in a variety of series, from ARCA to the Truck Series, is a comprehensive approach. The addition of Pro Late Model racing to this mix signifies a commitment to mastering the fundamentals of the sport, recognizing that a strong foundation is essential for long-term success.

Mitchell’s presence in the motorsport world, amplified by his substantial online following, brings a unique dynamic to the sport. His ability to translate his racing endeavors into engaging digital content not only broadens the appeal of motorsport but also provides a direct channel for sponsors and partners to connect with a diverse audience. The Pro Late Model initiative is expected to generate significant interest and provide fresh material for his channels, further cementing his status as a multifaceted personality within the racing landscape.

As Mitchell continues his pursuit of excellence on the track, his proactive approach to skill development, exemplified by his investment in the Pro Late Model, signals a serious commitment to his racing aspirations. The upcoming races, coupled with the ongoing development under the RCR banner, will be closely watched by fans and industry professionals alike. His progress in the Pro Late Model series will undoubtedly be a key indicator of his readiness for the challenges ahead in NASCAR’s national divisions. The integration of this new platform into his existing racing program is a testament to his dedication to continuous improvement and his drive to reach the pinnacle of motorsport.

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