The next generation of pit crew members will begin training next month with Rev Racing as part of NASCAR’s Drive for Development Program.
Seven former college athletes have been chosen for the 2019-20 program.
The athletes were selected from a fitness assessment in May at the NASCAR Research and Development Center in Concord, North Carolina. The assessment tested their agility, strength and flexibility, with all participants learning the roles of different crew members during pit stop simulations.
The class will relocate to the Charlotte area for a six-month training program led by Phil Horton, Rev Racing’s director of athletic performance. All members will train to become tire changers, tire carriers and jackmen, “with hopes of one day earning a spot on a national series race team,” according to a news release.
The pit crew element is part of the overall Drive for Diversity program, which also provides opportunities for aspiring drivers. All programs are geared toward providing opportunities for women and minorities in the pursuit of careers within NASCAR. Since its inception, more than 100 individuals have graduated from the Drive for Diversity program, with more than 50 currently working within the sport..
“We look forward to welcoming this year’s class to NASCAR’s most comprehensive pit crew training and development program,” Rev Racing CEO Max Siegel said. “We couldn’t be prouder of the journey both our pit crew development program and graduates have taken from its inception.
“With the expansion of our recruiting efforts across the country, the talent level rises, and our program continues to evolve and create more opportunities for advancement at a higher level.”
The 2019-20 NASCAR Drive for Diversity Pit Crew Development Program participants are:
| Name | Hometown | University | Primary Sport |
| Hadji Gaylord | Norfolk, Va. | Norfolk State University | Football (Defensive End) |
| Robin Loza | Charlotte, N.C. | Central Piedmont Community College | Football (Wide Receiver) |
| Maurice McKinnon | Charlotte, N.C. | Guilford College | Football (Wide Receiver) |
| Dalanda Ouendeno | Paris, France | University of Miami | Soccer (Defender) |
| Mequel Phillips | Chester, Va. | Virginia State University | Football (Linebacker) |
| Raynard Revels | Richmond, Va. | Norfolk State University | Football (Linebacker) |
| Alvin Wilson | Lexington, Miss. | Alcorn State University | Football (Linebacker) |