BayNews 9 – POLK COUNTY — Every day, a Polk County teen gets to live his dream, racing trucks against big competition all across the country.
Dylan Martin also races for another reason – to make sure other children can live out their dream, regardless of disability or age.
The 15-year-old Lakeland boy drives the No. 7 Pro Truck Series truck in most races.
“I was running quarter midgets for the national circuit,” he said. “I did that for three years. Then, when I turned 12 or 13, I jumped into a truck.”
He often meets with children to show them they can achive their goals by working hard. He recently went to the Sunshine Foundation’s Dream Village in Davenport, where he showed his vehicle and helmet and talked about good driving.
His audience, all serious, chronically ill, physically challenged or abused children, were enthusiastic.
Dylan has also spent time at the Shriner’s Hospital and other destinations to visit, talk about racing and give them an up-close look at his favorite sport.
He’s also the spokesperson for T.A.D.D. – Teens Against Distracted Driving. His message includes warnings about cell phone, texting while driving and car seats.
“You guys are still young,” he told the crowd. “When I was young, I didn’t like to sit in car seats, either. You guys are little. You are fragile. So you must keep sitting in car seats.”
Dylan dreams to someday race on the NASCAR circuit.
In the meantime, his goal is rather ordinary.
“The day I turn 16, I’m going to get my license. I hope I don’t scare the instructor or something like that,” he said.
For more information on Dylan, visit Dylan Martin Racing.