Meet the Driver: Jason Freeman

Q - So Jason, this will be your first time racing with TNR. Can you tell us how you got involved with TNR and a little background on how you got your start with iRacing?

A - I got involved in iRacing back in 2013.  In the years prior, I ran a 600 micro sprint on a limited basis and then ended up selling it to get ready for my wedding.  I was actually introduced to iRacing from the guy I sold my sprint car to.  Post racing I have found a new hobby in cornhole which is where I met Tony and he invited me to join the league.

Q - Do you think that racing the micro sprints translates at all to iRacing? If so, in what ways has it helped you transition from a real car and track to a simulator?

A - I’m not sure it translates much; but when I raced, I only ran when I could afford to do it, which in return helped me learn to take care of my equipment which I believe has made me a better racer on iRacing.  The problem I see with iRacing is that a lot of people like to drive over their heads rather than taking care of their car because when it’s over they just turn their computer off and they are done.  If everyone would use the same mentality of a real life racecar, the races would be a lot more clean than they already are.

Q - Very interesting. If I’m correct, I believe you have more racing experience from a different perspective. What were your duties with that and what series/drivers did you work with?

A - I have a friend Todd Peck who races part time in the NASCAR truck & Xfinity series. When they show up to race, I am a crew member in the garage for the weekend and also the fuel man on race-day.  Throughout helping Todd, I’ve been able to work with some other teams that have needed help from time to time including NASCAR cup driver BJ McLeod a few years back.  I also have spotted for Brian Kaltreider in ARCA races at Pocono Speedway and from time to time in the Super Cup Stock Car Series for another local driver to my area.

Q - You mentioned earlier that you know Tony from cornhole. Knowing you’re racing and competing against him and two other cornhole players (Matt, Doz), do you think that gives you a little extra drive to beat them and have bragging rights at cornhole tournaments?

A – Whether it be cornhole or racing, I’m always there to win.  If I was there to make friends, I’d go to Sunday school.

Q - So last question: What are your expectations for this league (TNR) both racing and league management?

A – Well, iRacing is just like anything else: The more time you put in, the quicker you are.  I’ve been on the sim for seven years but have not raced as much in the previous few years as I used to.  However, during this COVID quarantine, I got back into iRacing after being off for 11 months.  I have been putting the time in to get fast again and I wouldn’t settle for anything less than to be up front challenging for wins this season.